I just finished a new painting, a 30x30” work called Benton Street.
This work is both a continuation of my previous work and something new. It is definitely a continuation of the ground explored in my previous painting Cul-de-Sac. Judging from the response to that work, there’s something about prone bodies lying in suburbs that resonant with today’s mood. The death of the American middle class? The corona virus? Climate apocalypse? I’ll let the critics figure it out.
My previous paintings have all found their inspiration in vintage photographs. Yes, even the paintings of awkward naked people. You’d be amazed what you can find on Ebay. This painting came from the view outside my bedroom window (sans corpse). As I refine my style, I’m finding it harder and harder to find snapshots that I want to paint. Taking my own photos seems a logical next step.