FALL 2009-Present

NOTHING BUT IN THINGS


My work has evolved through many different concepts and styles, however there have been three key elements that remain constant; repetition, simplicity, and color. I have an introspective personality, and as an artist choose to show how simple life and art can be. I create paintings of everyday objects that are colorful and can stand to be infused with even more color and saturation.

I paint with oil for the incredible feeling of laying down paint. Layers are important- the passage to what lies beneath will continue to keep interest in my work. I choose simple compositions and paint loosely in order to feel movement. I enjoy painting objects larger than life; this gives me freedom to play with color and dynamic brush strokes. The palette knife allows me to achieve the smooth consistency that I desire in my paint, creating a fresh, flowing stroke. By using flat brushes, I am able to “carve” into the positive images, allowing the negative space to be an integral part of the entire whole. Drips are used for their spontaneity; I feel that it is important to lose control over certain aspects of a painting to create unexpected moments. I paint small studies of my references before moving on to a larger piece, they display beautifully alongside the finished work, showing the thoughts and changes made in the creative process.

My compositions are inspired by the works of Wayne Thiebaud, neatly aligned, repetitive objects, with clean color. The light in my work is almost always from the sun. I feel that this is the purest color that I can get, and it reflects quite beautifully. I try to capture “California air” as it truly has a color all on its own. I use high-key backgrounds to emphasize the chosen objects, making them pop from the two-dimensional surface.

When looking at my work, I hope to evoke a feeling of pleasant content. This should be art that you can imagine in your home, an image that takes your mind from the every day stresses and seriousness of life. It is created from a light point of view and is meant to be simply enjoyed.

-Sam Buller