Curtis Ripley: Recent Paintings

About

Ripley's artistic approach embodies the essence of the American Abstract Expressionist movement, particularly in its rejection of figurative representation and emphasis on spontaneity and gesture. Like his predecessors such as Jackson Pollock and Wassily Kandinsky, Ripley's process is deeply intertwined with music, allowing rhythmic brushstrokes to translate into bursts of color that dance across the canvas.

The use of black gesso as a base provides a stark contrast against which Ripley's vibrant colors can truly pop. The visible splatters and drips serve as tangible reminders of the artist's physical engagement with the canvas, capturing the energy and dynamism of the creative act itself.

Ripley's paintings are not mere visual compositions; they are multisensory experiences that evoke emotions and sensations akin to poetry. His work transcends strict interpretation, inviting viewers to engage with the paintings on a personal level and to find their own meaning within the layers of color and texture.

Through a process of wiping out and repainting, Ripley achieves a sense of depth and movement within his compositions, creating an ever-evolving visual narrative that invites exploration. Each layer of paint contributes to the overall richness of the work, resulting in paintings that are timeless, poetic, and full of life.