ARTIST STATEMENT + PROCESS

Chris started developing the style of art that he describes as "Jazz on paper" while studying art in college. He uses the elements of design for the base of his work. His focuses are line, balance, and color. He has always been intrigued by the tribal artwork of Native Americans and indigenous cultures with their use of strong lines, vibrant colors, and rich history. Chris became interested in abstract art through his art history classes. He is inspired by the processes of abstract artists like Rothko, Pollock, and Tobey and how they incorporated different elements of design in their work. 

Chris’ process happens in many fashions. Most of the time he has a clear image of the design that he wants to put on paper. As he begins his design, from mind to paper, the natural lay of the lines and curves drive his artwork. As he creates he also strives to keep the piece in balance and create a sense of motion or movement within the work. There is a lot of repetition in his work, with things like cross-hatching, bubbles, half circles, etc. He feels that this gives his work a sense of time. The last element he addresses in each piece of art is color. Some pieces, as he composes them, seem to call for certain color combinations. For the most part, though, it depends on his mood at the time and what inspires him at that moment. He believes that the colors he uses to give his work their identity, their soul, their feeling.