Chapters
by Daniel Stuelpnagel
Chapter Twenty
untitled # 398 (2007)The published review of our studio exhibition in Baltimore’s City Paper implied that my work had somehow been commenting on the impact of human civilization upon the natural world, and while I can see that as one possible interpretation, I do not believe it is the central message of my work.
The landscapes are fascinating to me as primordial visions of a world that transcends or predates human habitation. The worlds pictured in my paintings appear pristine and prehistoric, or perhaps post-historic, but in either case the message I feel bound to convey is not one of didactic intent, but an innate reverence for universal nature.
untitled # 400 (2007)It is a landscape of Earth but also of dreams. The recurring vision of the central vanishing point in the distance, surrounded by mountains, seems to symbolize the path we seek, flanked by challenges in life.
There is a clear path, yet the destination often appears distant and unresolved, while the obstacles loom large on all sides. And yet within the scope of our vision, there is a complete world of natural beauty apparent at all times.
untitled # 59 (1998)
collection of John & Virginia Stuelpnagel (Baltimore)Even from the early days of my art career, I discerned an aesthetic emerging from the influences of the many artists I had appreciated during my years as a student.
untitled # 67 (1999)And I built on that foundation, motivated by a desire to create museum-quality works of my own, to have these visions be a part of my life.
Over the years, I have assimilated other influences, seeing works by hundreds of contemporary artists as well as those reaching back into the ages.
untitled # 89 (2000)
collection of Christopher Nunes
(San Francisco)The rapid evolution of my aesthetic was made possible by my willingness to embark on the adventure of new experiences, and to take the time to develop the work in the space available.
untitled # 131 (2001)
collection of David & Virginia Gomer
(Cape Charles)
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