Marco Perego: Artist ‧ Zoe Saldana's Husband

Marco Perego-Saldana was born on March 1, 1979, in Salò, Italy. Raised in a humble family with his father working as a waiter and his mother as a homemaker, Perego initially harbored a passion for art.

However, soccer took center stage in his youth, leading him to play professionally until the age of 21 when a leg injury forced him to abandon his soccer dreams.

Transition to Art

After the setback, Perego relocated to New York City to pursue a career in art. Taking up odd jobs such as being a busboy, waiter, and soccer teacher, he supported himself while honing his artistic skills. His breakthrough came when he sold his first painting to Gilda Moratti, a connection through a friend. Over the years, Perego has established himself as an internationally renowned artist, with paintings fetching prices as high as $30,000 each.

Artistic Style and Achievements

Perego’s work, described by art critic Glenn O’Brien, aligns with the ancient Mediterranean tradition, staying true to his Hellenistic roots. In 2007, he gained visibility with his sculpture ‘The Only Good Rockstar Is a Dead Rockstar,’ featured on the cover of ‘The Guardian,’ coincidentally preceding the passing of singer Amy Winehouse. His artistic journey includes exhibitions at prestigious venues like the Royal Academy of Arts in London and Art Basel Miami.

Personal Life and Marriage to Zoe Saldana

Background and Marriage

Born into a blue-collar family, Perego’s life took a turn when he married American actress and dancer Zoe Saldana in 2013. The couple met in 2013 and tied the knot in a secret ceremony in London. Breaking with tradition, Perego took on the surname Perego-Saldana, emphasizing their commitment to equality.

Children and Multilingual Upbringing

The couple has three sons: twins Bowie Ezio Perego-Saldana and Cy Aridio Perego-Saldana, born in 2014, and Zen Perego-Saldana, born in 2017. Embracing a gender-fluid parenting approach, they reject traditional stereotypes, creating a diverse and inclusive environment for their children. Additionally, the family communicates in English, Italian, and Spanish, fostering a trilingual upbringing.

Artistic and Cinematic Contributions

In addition to his success in the art world, Perego ventured into film production. He produced and directed projects like ‘Burn to Shine’ and ‘The Absence of Eden.’ His involvement in the film industry complements Saldana’s acting career, creating a dynamic partnership between the artistic couple.

Continued Success and Unique Choices

Citizenship and Support for #MeToo

Perego became a U.S. citizen in 2016, a moment documented by Saldana on social media. The couple openly supports movements like #MeToo, with Perego being part of a #MeToo group. They actively engage in conversations to broaden the narrative surrounding the movement.

Championing Gender Fluidity

Perego and Saldana challenge traditional parenting norms, raising their children in a gender-fluid environment. Rejecting predefined roles, they emphasize equality in parenting responsibilities, presenting a united front for their children.

Languages and Cultural Awareness

The family’s commitment to multilingualism reflects their desire for cultural richness. Teaching their children English, Italian, and Spanish, Perego and Saldana aim to instill cultural awareness and linguistic diversity.

Conclusion:

A Renaissance Man in Contemporary Times Marco Perego-Saldana’s journey from a promising soccer career to international acclaim as an artist and filmmaker showcases his resilience and versatility.

Together with Zoe Saldana, the couple exemplifies progressive values, embracing diversity in their personal and professional lives. Perego’s story stands as a testament to the transformative power of pursuing one’s passion and breaking societal norms.

FAQs

1. Who is Marco Perego-Saldana? Marco Perego-Saldana is an Italian-born artist and former professional soccer player. He gained international recognition for his artistic work, with paintings selling for substantial amounts. He is married to American actress and dancer Zoe Saldana.

2. How did Marco Perego transition from soccer to art? After playing professional soccer until the age of 21, Perego suffered a leg injury that ended his soccer career. He then moved to New York City to pursue his passion for art, taking on various odd jobs to support himself.

3. What is Marco Perego’s artistic style? Described as rooted in the ancient Mediterranean tradition, Marco Perego’s artistic style remains loyal to his Hellenistic roots. His work has gained critical acclaim, and he has exhibited at prestigious venues globally.

4. How did Marco Perego and Zoe Saldana meet and get married? Marco and Zoe met in 2013 on a flight to New York City, and they married in a secret ceremony in London just three months later. They have three sons together and share a progressive approach to parenting.

5. What languages are Marco Perego-Saldana’s children learning? Marco and Zoe are raising their children to be multilingual. The family communicates in English, Italian, and Spanish, emphasizing cultural diversity and linguistic proficiency for their children.