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| Artist Statement |
Several years ago, I began exploring the concept of depicting the hot rod in
its most crude form, as a rusty work -in- progress. In my opinion, it is in that state
that the hot rod is most attractive, representing an archaic beauty bursting
with rebellious attitude and innovative self-expression. My current work
continues that exploration.
Each painting is quite different from the other, echoing the diversity of the
cars themselves. Some are vibrant and polished, others are weathered and
dull, and each portrays a snapshot of the various places the hot rod resides:
the salt flats and dry lake beds, the car shows, chop shops and driveways. In
addition, I depict the people who build and drive these marvelous machines.
Most can be seen being absorbed in the task at hand, giving rise to a moment of
philosophical reflection.
The use of the reference photograph is important in my work; generally
these originate from my own camera. I do work from both life and imagination as
well, and I often combine these sources to create an original composition, a
method that, in many respects, parallels the process of hot rod fabrication. My
use of engine, transmission and brake oil as a medium is another, more direct
connection to the automobile, unifying the painting with its subject.
These works posses a great and personal significance because, in a way,
they chronicle my life; the places I have seen, the people I have met and the
sensations I have felt. The hot rod has given me the opportunity to experience
new and different worlds by inviting me into a culture where gasoline fumes
devour the air, flathead engines sputter and pop and the hot rod is king.
its most crude form, as a rusty work -in- progress. In my opinion, it is in that state
that the hot rod is most attractive, representing an archaic beauty bursting
with rebellious attitude and innovative self-expression. My current work
continues that exploration.
Each painting is quite different from the other, echoing the diversity of the
cars themselves. Some are vibrant and polished, others are weathered and
dull, and each portrays a snapshot of the various places the hot rod resides:
the salt flats and dry lake beds, the car shows, chop shops and driveways. In
addition, I depict the people who build and drive these marvelous machines.
Most can be seen being absorbed in the task at hand, giving rise to a moment of
philosophical reflection.
The use of the reference photograph is important in my work; generally
these originate from my own camera. I do work from both life and imagination as
well, and I often combine these sources to create an original composition, a
method that, in many respects, parallels the process of hot rod fabrication. My
use of engine, transmission and brake oil as a medium is another, more direct
connection to the automobile, unifying the painting with its subject.
These works posses a great and personal significance because, in a way,
they chronicle my life; the places I have seen, the people I have met and the
sensations I have felt. The hot rod has given me the opportunity to experience
new and different worlds by inviting me into a culture where gasoline fumes
devour the air, flathead engines sputter and pop and the hot rod is king.
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