"My goals have shifted slightly with this new body of work, as they usually do.  It's important for me to have my paintings evolve with time; this show reflects that positively," shares artist Ryan Kohler. 

This body of work is familiar but new. The small changes and new ideas are reflected in the collection as a whole and when individual pieces are examined more closely. 

"My work has taken on a bit more of an illustrative look, and I’m leaning into that playful aspect. I mean, why try to be a realist painter when I'm using abstract bits of paper instead of brushstrokes?" Kohler asks. "When I think about it, my work has been pretty illustrative all along. I just never really thought about it that way until recently."
 

Rhubarb 12x24 Mixed Media on Panel $1500

"The collage bits still play a massive role in the look of my paintings, but I'm using them less than I used to," Kohler explains. "For instance, instead of a full sheet of paper to describe the hull of a boat, I'm opting to let a lot of the painting underneath get its shine, and I'll add a few pieces of a similar shade that are similar to a brushstroke that adds subtle variety within that color plane."

There is never a lack of color in Kohler's work, but the intent and selection are more intentional, and it shows in the finished piece.

"The colors I find are still from a wide range of places," he says, "but I'm spending more time on the importance of each piece with every painting I do. It’s a good thing!"

Maine Art Hill is excited to feature artist Ryan Kohler at Maine Art Hill at 5 Chase Hill Road in Kennebunk, Maine. This talented artist and his new colorful works promise to bring the fun. This show opens on July 20 and runs through August 14.