Kenneth Joseph Bini
Kenneth Bini was featured at Drift Gallery in CONFLUENCE
ARTIST STATEMENT
My current work explores the expressive potential of the human figure in various scenarios, narratives and the dynamic created between the figure and ground relationship. I generate these images through a rhythm of mark making and reductive processes. Figures and figure groups emerge from a continual layering of paint and glazes and the scraping and scratching into the surface reveal, embellish and enhance the image. By cutting and working into these accumulated layers of pigment, I am able to create a surface that is complex and visually unpredictable. In each piece, I strive to connect with and crystallize the tension and mystery of contemporary life. Through experimentation, acceptance of change and process driven image making, I embrace the potential of the unexpected in the emerging picture.
I see these images as portraits, character studies, fictions and manifestations of memories. The narratives stem from my immediate environment and the numerous stimuli of modern media as well as from classical art, mythology and invention. The references are only alluded to, some more than others, inviting a more active participation from the viewer. I am open to alternative readings of my paintings.
Over the years my paintings have ranged from post-card sized expressionistic figurative depictions to large-scale non-representational pieces. After experimenting with non-traditional media, I predominantly paint with oils now. There is a freedom in the infinite potential of this medium; and I also feel a kinship or link with the 500 plus years of western oil painting traditions. One constant thread in my work has been painting the landscape. Working from direct observation in the field is an invaluable exercise for all my painting endeavors. I enjoy the challenge of working outside; the anticipation and speed of execution are exhilarating.
For me, the painting process is not about technical proficiency, mimetic dexterity, or re-painting something in a new or different "style". Painting is a language that is continually re-defining itself. At best painting is revealing something to me, about me, which was not previously known.
My current work explores the expressive potential of the human figure in various scenarios, narratives and the dynamic created between the figure and ground relationship. I generate these images through a rhythm of mark making and reductive processes. Figures and figure groups emerge from a continual layering of paint and glazes and the scraping and scratching into the surface reveal, embellish and enhance the image. By cutting and working into these accumulated layers of pigment, I am able to create a surface that is complex and visually unpredictable. In each piece, I strive to connect with and crystallize the tension and mystery of contemporary life. Through experimentation, acceptance of change and process driven image making, I embrace the potential of the unexpected in the emerging picture.
I see these images as portraits, character studies, fictions and manifestations of memories. The narratives stem from my immediate environment and the numerous stimuli of modern media as well as from classical art, mythology and invention. The references are only alluded to, some more than others, inviting a more active participation from the viewer. I am open to alternative readings of my paintings.
Over the years my paintings have ranged from post-card sized expressionistic figurative depictions to large-scale non-representational pieces. After experimenting with non-traditional media, I predominantly paint with oils now. There is a freedom in the infinite potential of this medium; and I also feel a kinship or link with the 500 plus years of western oil painting traditions. One constant thread in my work has been painting the landscape. Working from direct observation in the field is an invaluable exercise for all my painting endeavors. I enjoy the challenge of working outside; the anticipation and speed of execution are exhilarating.
For me, the painting process is not about technical proficiency, mimetic dexterity, or re-painting something in a new or different "style". Painting is a language that is continually re-defining itself. At best painting is revealing something to me, about me, which was not previously known.
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