The Transcendence of Art
As artists, we have an amazing opportunity to leave a mark, both literally and figuratively. Our tools are fairly common items found all over the world; whether that is clay from southern Italy, linseed oil from Belgium, hair from a hog’s tail, or a splash of turpentine. We sit down in front of blank canvas, which is simply cotton stretched over a wood panel. We then have the option to represent literally anything. It could be something beautiful, something hideous or simply a common, everyday object. We decide if we want to produce art that is for the viewer, for the artist themselves or perhaps just for art’s sake.
My primary objective is to create something that transcends the mere materials used and actually transcends art itself. Whether that is “Beauty”, “Truth” or “Wonder”, my desire is for the viewer to find something meaningful in my art, something that gives them an opportunity to slow down from the hectic pace of life, pause for a minute or two, and reflect.
Welcome. I’m so glad you were drawn to my work. I’m a representational artist residing in Maumelle, Arkansas with my wonderful wife of 35 years, Robyn. Working entirely in oils for the past 8 years, I enjoy exploring a variety of subjects but primarily focus on figurative work, portraits, still-life and floral works. I am inspired by music, dance, the beautiful colors of nature and, oddly enough, fabric folds.
Hopefully you see the strong influences in my work from the old masters. I admire too many to name but am particularly drawn to the academic styles of William Adolphe Bouguereau and Auguste Toulmouche but have also drawn from the amazing brushwork of more contemporary artists such as John Singer Sargent, Daniel Gerhartz and Vicente Romero.
I’m an active, signature member of the Arkansas League of Artists currently serving as President. I’ve been juried into several shows placing in the ALA Art Show, ALA Members Show, Conway Artist League, AACA, Grand Prairie and Pine Bluff Art League Exhibition. I am extremely grateful for the opportunity that opened up to study under Chelsea Lang over the past year. (ALA - Arkansas League of Artists).
Patrick