Had a chance to visit the studio of painter James Rieck. I had only
recently become familiar with his work and was impressed. However,
seeing his work is person is a much different experience. The scale of
the work and the quality of execution are really quite spectacular.
James’ beautifully subtle manipulation of paint is unlike any work I
have seen. At distance the work has an element of realism that you can
only assume will break down as you get closer to the canvas. This is not
the case. In fact, at proximity the work is even more impressive. It
has a nearly photographic quality as you find soft edges and almost no
traces of mark making whatsoever. When you consider how large these
paintings are the feat is only more impressive. To complicate matters he
has executed entire series of paintings while limiting himself to two
colors – red and green (plus white, but white is not considered a color
after labor day). This not only makes me appreciate his skill for mixing
paint, but also gives each painting in the series a beautiful harmony.
For most artists this would be the accomplishment. This kind of
flawless rendering would be where the angst and toil resides. James
displays a level of skill that most artists spend a lifetime pursuing.
However, after speaking with him for awhile I’m convinced that the
execution of the piece is really secondary. For James, the purity of the
concept really trumps all. He never uses his own photographs as a base
for his paintings, and yet each series looks as if he hired and staged
the models himself. He creatively crops and manipulates piles of
reference until his composition and concept feels cohesive. This gives
his work a ‘found object’ quality which only enhances the experience of
viewing his work. For him, I believe, this is where the real angst lies.
This is the work – pouring over and accumulating reference until he
finds just the right pieces with which to make his fabulous paintings.
A true pleasure to meet such a gifted and humble artist who was
willing to open his studio and share his process. Overall, an inspiring
visit that will stay with me for some time. Cheers, James Rieck.
