Many artists work in series format. For some, the subject of the series is determined by the subject of the work– oceanscape, abstract, pop culture, etc. But for Los Angeles artist Benjamin Adelmann, a series of work is often dictated by the process through which the artist arrives at his final destination.
Whether through beginning in a completely abstract composition or with a previously composed work manipulated through editing software and repainted as manipulation, Adelmann’s work feels more about what happens on the journey than what is waiting upon arrival. It’s a lesson I’m striving to embrace myself these days– that act of getting lost in the process and learning my way through it. That relinquishing of what I have in mind for a final outcome and just following where the path may lead.
To see more of Benjamin Adelmann’s work, please visit his website.
All images are via the artist’s website.
Michael Nauert
February 25, 2015 at 8:15 PMI’ve seen these in person, and they are fantastic! I remember being so engaged by the moments of the painting’s history that expose themselves throughout the works. They give clues to the process, but at the same time induce mystery. Additionally, the large scale of some of these and rich color engulf you further into the uncanny process. These are some wonderful pieces.
Artsy Forager
February 26, 2015 at 8:54 AMI’m sure they are stunning in person, Michael! I do feel like sometimes we do paintings an injustice by showing them on a computer screen– a digital photograph reproduced on a tiny screen can’t even begin to show us the complexity of most painted work. Thank you of sharing your impression of his work!
Michael Nauert
February 26, 2015 at 6:04 PMI agree, paintings are not meant for screens. Seeing them live is so much more fulfilling. It’s a valuable lesson I’ve been learning this last year.