impression #2

Koi 5.5' x 8' all rights reserved by the artist
1985
oil on canvas
commission
( very loose up close,
looks very tight
from a distance)

I was taking a break and tiptoeing through the paintings and came across some high quality hyper realists, not in the old term of the 70's and 80’s, yet that venue of contemporary realists. Lovely craftsmanship, yet i was left chilled, all emotion gone, almost sucked from the very image.
I think what struck me so when i saw Duane Keiser's work was it had some emotion without being contrived or forced; at least it feels that way to me. I did see this. Almost cannibalism of ideas, I do not know where it started, was sort of shocked to see a painting almost exact composition I did at 15 and similar tones though mine was a study in black and white as directed by my teacher. The subject a dress on a hanger. I have done a few of these and plan to again ~i see someone lovingly has made them a theme of their work, yet i felt as if I was looking at a dead dress. I think that is it, all emotion removed.
And it's good to see some homage to the Dutch painters, reminds me of my again student work, though again when i approach these subjects i try to imbue life in them rather then, Remove it.

It is a stark contrast to the many people who think painting is just putting color to canvas and attempting to render something. Usually without training or eye, or a studied hand or hows of real practice and disciplined devotion.
The in between area or craft and emotion. Of truthfulness and. resonance, of observation and gift to the viewer is what i seek, what i appreciate, there are a few very few i see who are willing and able to do that...
Most interesting revelation, sad to see "designed" work supersede true painting, and that so many who just scratch think they are painting. Painting is joyful and yet a painful process at times, revealing much of your soul to yourself when you’re in fact painting!!!! Not just copying or designing in paint to some marketing limited lane of subject matter and expression. It evolves takes you as the artist and viewer. It engages, it's a conversation that is silent yet penetrates...in my humble opinion.
This is why i am so enthused about this venue. (I must pack 3 more weeks i am out of here and free to begin again ;) (!)) And what Duane Keiser has wrapped around that view and the resonance it has called to any of us who engage to be that intermediate between the creative process, the artist's expression and the appreciative viewer.
I do not know Duane Keiser, yet after seeing what is happening currently in the world of contemporary painting my first impression again renewed.
And the building passion within me to let that creative explosion to be let loose is increasing in divine pressure an a bit of frustration but i must remember the coming blast of light as i pull back the curtain.