Charles Compo (b. 1958) is an internationally recognized composer, multi-instrumentalist, and painter based in New York City. Born into a family of artists, musicians, and performers, Compo was immersed in the arts from the moment he was born. Growing up in Queens and the East Village, he developed a deep affinity for music, culture and a bohemian way of life..

As a young artist navigating diverse music scenes, Compo was taken under the wing of the visionary filmmaker and folklorist Harry Smith. Together, they collaborated on animated projects and shared explorations in philosophy, mysticism, and multiculturalism. His work with Smith led him to meet Folkway Records founder Moses Asch, resulting in a recording contract in 1987. These experiences cemented Compo’s foundation in experimental and jazz-influenced music, shaping his unique artistic vision.

In recent years, Compo has turned his focus toward painting as his primary artistic pursuit. Working in oil on canvas, his art explores the subconscious, contemporary life, and social realities through abstract imagery and cryptic symbolism. His paintings reflect a profound engagement with psychological complexity and existential themes.

Compo’s work has been widely recognized in the international art community. He has been a finalist in numerous juried exhibitions and has exhibited in prominent group shows and biennales, including the London Biennale (2022, 2024) and the Chianciano Biennale in Italy (2024). His paintings are held in major public and private collections, including Museo d’Arte di Chianciano Terme, The Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum, The Wausau Museum of Contemporary Art, and The Yuko Nii Foundation’s Permanent Collection at the Williamsburg Art & Historical Center.

In 2023, Compo’s painting Swan Lake was selected by Brinda Kumar, curator at MoMA, for exhibition at the Greenwich Art Society’s 105th Annual Juried Exhibition. Kumar praised his work for its “psychological complexity” and surrealist depth, underscoring Compo’s continuing relevance and impact in contemporary art.

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