Matthew Landkammer » chromophile

chromophile

October 1st, 2007

Filed under: — Matthew Landkammer @ 6:26 am

Chromophile
August, 2005

for Gene

These works are less unlike the paintings I have always meant to make than any paintings I have made otherwise.

Ideally, I see the viewer interacting with these works in three stages:

First, an immediate retinal impression of an all-over color. The decision to use high-key, intensely saturated color is no accident in this regard. Rather, it is an attempt to overwhelm the retina. However, I chose colors that I found pleasing, even candy-like. My intent is not to disgust the viewer with brash color.

Second, as the eyes adjust, a realization of the underlying striations that build the overall color. Built into these striations are inherent flaws, a certain unevenness, that causes a visual “quiver” or shimmering that will not allow the eyes to rest on any given area of the field. Because there are no crisply defined edges in the paintings, the eyes are forced to wander in an attempt to find purchase. Ultimately, allowing the eye’s focus to slip slightly is a pleasing way to view the painting.

Third, an emotional reaction to the composition of the horizontal striations, ideally one of calm. Once the viewer settles into the painting, the horizontal composition creates a restful, open feeling. As with my past works, these works are about the open vistas of the Great Plains. Not exactly landscape, but allusions to landscape. Or, perhaps, allusions to the sensation of landscape.

__________________________

Selected works from this exhibition:

01061205
2005, acrylic on canvas
60 x 60 inches