Paul Kauffman Art: Bonita Museum and Cultural Center, Conversations, May 26-July8

Thursday, May 4, 2017

Bonita Museum and Cultural Center, Conversations, May 26-July8

Feast of the Vine 48x36" acrylic and pastel 2017
Bonita Museum and Cultural Center
Conversations With Color
Paul Kauffman, Amanda St. Claire, Terri Rippee
May 26-July8

Artist Statement

Painting Style Description

Sometimes I will approach a painting from a detailed drawing and often times overlay several pastel colors, then block in the negative shape around the drawing to create visual weight. Other times, I will create the negative space with a large color field without any drawing. Once the composition starts to form, I will add pastels to further define the shapes.

Sometimes, I will use a sponge brush to create a water color wash and then add impasto layers with my fingers as paint brushes. Even though I do not have a specific outcome in mind, I am often told by the viewers that they love my energy and color palate.

I've been asked many times what message I want to give in my paintings or what kind of emotional reaction I wish the viewer to feel .
I've read many artists responses to that question and indeed there are a good many of them who paint with the purpose of conveying a certain feeling , style or personal agenda . They have a vision and try to capture it on canvas. I've come to accept the reality that I am not that kind of artist . I never know nor do I anticipate the outcome of a painting . I just paint . Painting for me is ALWAYS a leap into the unknown .I just let the brush go where it will with little initial concern for the outcome . After a few brushstrokes however , the directional form of the painting will start to emerge . It is at that time that my choices become more intentional. But I still try to stay in a mental state of freedom . And at some point ill have to decide if a painting is successful or not . Unless it is a commissioned piece , I don't paint with the viewer in mind . They will see in the painting whatever they will see .Some will be moved , others may not. For me painting is PASSION AT PLAY . A total exercise in spontaneity .
As an adult I sometimes lose that sense of play and start analyzing with a critical left Brain. I have to remind myself that a two year old playing with paints doesn't ponder the question
" What do i want the viewers to feel ? "

Using brushes, sponges, fingers, acrylic and pastel, Paul Kauffman creates a passion play of art. With little pre-determined intention, and without catering to a critical audience, he is able to develop a painterly play between himself, and his materials. A play that develops through detailed drawing, pastel overlays, the use of negative space and acrylic applied in both watered and impasto technique. The result is a rather Electric Impressionism. A lively jolt to the otherwise beautiful serenity of a Sunday morning repast.

contact Paul Kauffman:

email: paulkauffmandesigns@gmail.com

phone: 760 212 7537

Exhibits

2017

Bonita Museum of Art, San Diego, three artist exhibit, May 26-

Gallery at the Brooks, Oceanside, solo exhibit

2016

Art on 30th, Edgar Allan Poe National Exhibition

Ashton Art Gallery, group exhibition Jurors choice award

2015

Gloria Delson Contemporary Arts Group Exhibition – art demonstration

Gloria Delson Contemporary Arts Group Exhibition- art demonstration

Congregation Beth Israel Chair Art Auction

Oceanside Cultural Arts Foundation – Oceanside Days of Art, The Gallery at The Brooks. art demonstration

The Gallery at The Brooks, solo exhibition

A.L.H.I. Charity: Orange County

Art Walk Oceanside Live Demonstration . Artist Alley

Art Walk Laguna Beach on display at Hugo Rivera Gallery

Variations on a Theme, San Diego, solo exhibition

Grand Opening Kauffman Art Studios, San Diego, solo exhibitioni

Vista Hill Foundation Gala - solo exhibition

1976

Melrose Art Gallery Los Angeles

1971

Student Art show - Loyola/ Marymount