“I always say that I’ve been drawing and painting ever since I was old enough to hold a crayon. Luckily, my parents and grandparents were always super encouraging about my interest in art. They even let me paint on my bedroom walls and ceilings,” shares Kohler. “Growing up, I used to try and replicate my favorite album covers and t-shirts. It taught me much about design and laid the groundwork for some cool paintings later.”
Ryan Kohler | Bout | Mixed Media on Canvas | 24" x 36"
“Everyone steps to a painting with their approach, but I initially view it as an abstract work. I look at the composition, paint texture, general shapes and colors, and temperature first before inspecting the recognizable imagery,” explains Kohler. “I want the viewer to see my work as a precarious mix of careful observation and spontaneous mark-making. My painting seems to work best when I find the most entertaining ratio of the two.”
“My process is also evolving a little bit. The main meat and potatoes of my work are still painting and continue to be acrylic, but I’m starting to incorporate the use of tape and markers and objects,” he explains. “I’m treating my canvas like a collage with more emphasis on the painting than the collage part.”
Ryan Kohler | Tenderfoot | Mixed Media & Collage on Panel | 36" x 24"
Ryan Kohler | Snippy | Mixed Media on Panel | 12" x 24"
If Kohler is one of your favs, mark the dates on your calendar. If you can’t wait til summer, click the link below to see his present collection of works at Maine Art Hill. Call or check our website for hours this winter and spring. 207-967-2803 www.maine-art.com
July 22 - August 16
Artist Reception: July 22, 5-7 PM
Shows 1 & 2 at Studios
5 Chase Hill Rd. Kennebunk, Maine 04043