Crazy 4 Cult X

Whoa! I'm honoured to have been asked to take part in the 10th edition of Gallery 1988's Crazy 4 Cult show. Ten years is a long time to run a show, and the list of artists they've had participate is a regular who's who of the lowbrow/modern pop-culture scene. So...being asked to contribute is a pretty big deal for me.

I'm a big fan of cult movies, and choosing one was actually somewhat difficult. I had to consider genre, actors (and my ability to render a likeness...), and even if the movie I selected would be "cult" enough.

In the end, I think I went a bit outside of the conventional box - choosing Harry Dean Stanton's character, Travis, as my focus, from the absolutely stunning Paris, Texas. Paris, Texas is a 1984 film directed by Wim Wenders, which - and I'm being quite non-descript here - tells the story of a man trying to reconcile with his estranged son, wife, and family. The performances are stunning, and are matched by the cinematography and score (by Ry Cooder).

I hope I did Mr.Stanton justice in my piece, which follows - along with some process.

My initial sketches for "Travis".

My initial sketches for "Travis".

Working out composition (loosely) - the painting is on a 12 x 24 inch birch panel.

Working out composition (loosely) - the painting is on a 12 x 24 inch birch panel.

Some process. I do wish I had been a bit more in depth with documenting my process on this piece.

Some process. I do wish I had been a bit more in depth with documenting my process on this piece.

The final piece. A custom frame was made by my good friend, Jana, who is VERY good at that kind of thing.

The final piece. A custom frame was made by my good friend, Jana, who is VERY good at that kind of thing.

Anyways.

I'll be in Los Angeles for the opening, which takes place on Friday, October 21st, at Gallery 1988 (West). If you're in the area, come say hi!