About the Abstract Artist, Brian Kirchoff

Brian J. Kirchoff
Born 1960, St. Louis Missouri USA

Restlessly creative is how I describe myself, which probably explains my varied career in numerous creative-type fields; broadcast, on-camera, graphic development and design, computer based training, programming,  voice overs, and of course, painting.  

Focusing on the abstract, my work usually features line and color, oftentimes with a noticeable geometric take.  I rely heavily on the use of line and mark to bring about tension and interest and bring your eye to various points within the work. 

While I occasionally explore vague themes in my work, I prefer viewers to form their own interpretations based on their personal experiences. Visual interest and exploration are my primary goals as a painter—my motivation is purely aesthetic. I paint because I want to and because I enjoy the process, not to express long-term mental anguish, make political statements, or comment on the plight of endangered species. Generally speaking, among the artists I know personally, stories and meanings are typically attached after a painting is completed. I strongly believe that much of the commentary accompanying artwork in museums is created by gallerists and critics eager to assign motivation or meaning to what they imagine the artist intended. I've never bought into that approach, especially where abstract art is concerned.

My method involves throwing down some sort of background color or colors, determining a structure based on what I see, then applying paint and reacting to it.  I use a variety of applicators that I've stumbled across over the years that have offer somewhat unpredictable results.  Meaning I don't always know exactly how the paint will lay on the canvas.  I embrace the imperfections that I see from moment to moment, and respond to them as I see fit.  My process is one of constant discovery.  Something that for me, makes painting a consistently new and interesting road to travel.