Danny Powell is a rising Chicago artist who is known for his artistic expressions that draw from his deep roots in philosophy, psychology, world history, and symbolism. Powell believes that "Art cannot be taught, it is something that exposes itself to those that are willing and able to encounter and embrace it...that art is about commitment and not formal training."Powell's work is intuitive, fiery and expressive, involving bold and unusual color combinations. His paintings integrate flowing water based mediums, like india ink and acrylic paint, with dry mediums, like charcoal and pastel, the combination of which solicits a wide range of emotional responses from the viewer.
He studied at The School of the Art Institute of Chicago in the late 1990s where he benefited from viewing the museum's collection on a daily basis. It was here he developed a strong interest in painting from the 1940s and 1950s, which became critical in his development as a painter. An encounter with the painting "The Earth is a Man" by Roberto Matta changed his direction entirely. In 1999, his emphasis shifted from portraiture and figure drawing to non-objective abstraction.
Powell's art presents a distinctive visual reality that blends different styles such as Fauvism, Surrealism, and Abstract Expressionism. The work is painterly, organic, and features bright color, with all-over spaced compostitions. One example of this synthesis is a work titled "The Dangerous Limit" created in the summer of 2001. He usually paints at night, when the energy feels right under artificial light or with candles. The work is meant to be experienced on a subconscious, visceral level, and connect the viewer to possible buried emotions. It is not literal and does not attempt to appear rational. Powell's painting is alive and pulsating, mysterious, paralleling his perception of life.
In 2006, Danny co-founded the Chicago based artist collective known as the Infidel Group with the poet and artist Jono Tosch(creator of the Idiot Hero). The goal of the group is uniting Chicago's artists and public through laid-back exhibitions in comfortable alternative spaces. The group members work collaboratively to put on unique events that feature artwork and live music (A Light Sleeper) in a welcoming and positive atmosphere. Infidel Group strives for rooted community based events, partnering with both local businesses, and community focused international organizations, to share the benefit of exposure. Modeled in the vein of art groups of the early 1900s such as Die Brucke, Infidel Group members share an enthusiasm for engagement, professionalism and balance amongst contemporary artists.
Other Influences
Kim Frieders, David Keel, alchemical texts,
islamic tiles, north african textiles,
german expressionism, oriental rugs, psychedelia,
folk art, the art of the "insane", carl jung,
illuminated manuscripts, stained glass, mythology,
shamanism, native american folklore, COBRA,
and the Nabis.
Statement
My work is about these things: self exploration,
spontenaiety, improvisation, visual pleasure,
sensuality, organic forms, and extreme emotional opposites.
I have always considered painting as a platform for
self-awareness and a vehicle for balancing different
aspects of my personality, making myself whole,
and setting myself free.
Exhibition History
Studio Photos
