First things first: I made an artbook. Second things second: I launched a Kickstarter campaign.
Last year, I was approached by the Museum of Biblical Art in Dallas to curate a two-person show with my mentor and dear friend, Jerome Witkin. I studied under Jerome while attending Syracuse University and have long admired his work. I consider it the greatest honor of my life to show work alongside my favorite living partner. To prepare for this amazing opportunity, I am scaling the production to create the most intricate and challenging paintings of my career.
I have created a Kickstarter campaign to raise $12,000 to focus my time and efforts on my studio. All funds raised from this campaign will be allocated explicitly for studio and art budgets through October 2022. This includes basic art supplies, canvas, lumber for stretchers, studio assistance, photography services, and models to pose for my figurative work.
This is where the artbook comes in. I wanted to reward my backers with a memento that is illustrative of the decade in artmaking that has led me to this moment in my career. This limited-edition print of 150 includes my favorite abstract and figurative works, some dating back to my days at Syracuse University, all the way up to my most recent statuary series that debuted in the Techne show. An artbook is something I have always wanted to make. I am excited to be able to share it now and to turn its creation into a catalyst for more art.
Additional tiers in the campaign are available, including high-quality prints of works included in the book, and original drawings from my sketchbook that give a glimpse into the creative process behind my paintings. A limited number of backers will receive a commissioned painting with one figure of their choice.
I want to take full advantage of this moment to showcase my work in front of the largest audience of my career. It brings me joy to know that this campaign is an opportunity to reach my goal and create portraits and mementos for people that believe in my vision. The show with Jerome feels like a major turning point in my career, and I want to match the scale of my process with that of my ambitions.
Feel free to message me if you have any questions about the campaign and its rewards. I am open to discussion about the commission painting and its conception.