Kreuser Gallery is proud to present Jon Francis’ show, ‘Closing Time’ all about the contrast of neon and night time – urban landscapes, city lights, and highway lines.
Artist Statement:
Being a Colorado Springs native, I am continually inspired by this city and region. I live and work close to downtown. When I’m not painting in my studio, you can find me running in my neighborhood or hiking with my family in Palmer Park.
I began making art from a very early age. I started by taking classes at Bemis Art School and my passion for art just grew. In high school I was fortunate to be taught by local Colorado Springs artist Floyd Tunsen at Palmer High. His love for Pop Art was a great influence on my early artwork. Floyd introduced me to Basquiat, Warhol, and Claes Oldenburg. I became very inspired by popular and graphic imagery.
In college my passion continued to grow as I learned to paint from life and built my knowledge of traditional landscapes. Painting was focused on an indirect painting method built from layering thin washes of paint to create a warm glow on the canvas. Imagery for landscapes in college was very traditional, but I always yearned to take my easel to the railroad tracks to paint the back allies. I often asked my painting teacher if we could skip another lake painting and go find some industrial area.
Currently I have been very inspired by urban landscapes: landscapes of beautiful skies juxtaposed by elements of urban life (powerlines, billboards, gas stations, etc.). In a world of disposable everything, I enjoy painting these moments as a way to record, preserve and enjoy the landmarks that have shaped my childhood and my city. The warm glow of a neon sign and a brightly lit billboard helps me still incorporate my love of Pop art with classical elements from a landscape.
The opening reception will feature music by Ben Hall.
Free
Phone: (719) 464-5880
Email: kreusergallery@gmail.com
2021/08/06 - 2021/08/27
Additional time info:
Artist Talk: August 19 at 5:30 p.m.
Kreuser Gallery
125 E. Boulder Street, Colorado Springs, CO 80903