FROM 3D GECKLER TO 2D BOYLE

(12” X 16”) Oil on canvas, Private Collection
These three paintings are part of what will be a 9-painting series created for the renowned Chicago-based sculptor Karl Geckler. “I would like two-dimensional versions of my three-dimensional sculptures,” Karl said to me. “What do you think of the idea?” Well it’s obvious why Karl is such an excellent and successful sculptor. Because in my opinion the idea of taking one artist’s work in one medium (sculpture) and reproducing it (but in an original fashion) in another medium (oil paint) is fantastic! “Here’s a book with a few dozen of my sculptures,” Karl said. “Pick whichever ones you like. Recreate them however you like, and let’s see what happens!” It was a very strange and new adventure for me, certainly I was unaccustomed to making smaller paintings, and definitely a different subject matter. But I relished the opportunity to embark upon this new journey and I enjoyed the experience very much. I kept the rich colors and metallic paints and even some arcane symbols. But I focused on the twisted symmetrical shapes which characterize Karl’s art. The result was what you see. Strange colorful shapes which beg the question, “What on Earth is that?” Well, it’s what you get when a sculptor and a painter join forces. But hopefully it’s just the beginning because we’ve got other collaborative ideas as well…