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"These paintings had their genesis many years ago but were impossible without a long personal evolution and until a very recent reunion of two long-neglected passions--a fascination for herptiles (a relatively recent term that encompasses both Reptiles and Amphibians) and the pursuit of Artistic fulfillment, both of which were interrupted by more 'practical' endeavors like the need for a regular paycheck.
Fortunately, I was able to leave Johnson County Kansas and relocate in Wyandotte County Kansas where I acquired some property with a very rich herptofanna.
A program of capturing, photographing, recording vital statistics and releasing specimens awakened urges in me and led to a realization that the preternatural beauty of these unique but under-appreciated creatures would provide exceptional subject matter for a series of paintings.
I work from photographs because it imposes the least possible amount of stress on the animal subjects and I maintain a photographic appearance to my work because I appreciated the matter-of-fact way that a camera records reality.
Nature's beautifully complex machinery provides the designs that stimulate my artistic muse, however, fidelity to the source material becomes secondary during the act of painting when the rich, earthy aroma of linseed oil kicks in and the right music propels the brush in my hand.
I want my brush work to elicit a tactile response in the viewer because these creatures are somewhat unique in that most will deliver a rewarding first-hand experience, unlike bird-watching which is best done behind a pair of binoculars.
Intimate interaction can lead to understanding and enlightenment and will reveal aesthetic pleasures in unusual places. Not all life forms would qualify as 'cute and cuddly' but they are all critical components of a complex ecosystem that deserve everyone's admiration and respect.
I paint for pleasure and without commercial aspirations (the black velvet painting 'Geckos Playing Poker' will have to wait) but should a painting elicit a purchasing or any other response I can best be reached via the 'Contact' button found on the web site www.imagonatura.org." --Kevin Lundy
For more information about this or any other exhibit at the Kansas City, Kansas Public Library, call Sarah Bohndorf at (913) 596-5800, or email sbohnd@kckpl.lib.ks.us.
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