A Rich, Interactive Experience
By Eric Conklin

I believe that our job as painters is to visually communicate with the viewer in a language that is universal. We want the viewer to see our painting from across the room and draw them closer with color, design, etc. When they get in front of it, then it's show time, we may lead their eyes around the painting, provoke a certain feeling and possibly touch on an intellectual side that entertains them. When possible, I like to entice the viewer to interact with the painting, making them part of the experience. If I had to guess, I would say that research is about 20% of the painting. A painting may begin from a casual discussion with my friends or something that I've seen or experienced. During the research process the idea of the painting will evolve being influenced by our modern day.

The longest story and research was in "The Perspective Box of a Dutch Interior", based on the Samuel Van Hoogstraten's Box dating from about 1650, in the collection of Detroit Institute of Art in Detroit, Michigan. It took a full year to research and build.

The shortest story and research was "My last Red Button" which was a trompe painting of a small red button in a zip lock bag, the kind that you find attached to your clothing when you purchase them new. I often wonder why they don't provide a needle and thread...I had to go buy one.

Anyway, the painting must fit the research as to give the viewer something to look forward to, like a treasure hunt. Of course my cousin told me that he just wants a pretty picture, he doesn't want to think. Sometimes I get that!