ARTIST BIOGRAPHY

BS in Art, Missouri State University, 1966 PhD, Curriculum and Instruction (Art Education), University of Missouri, 1986 Professor Emeritus, Appalachian State University
MFA, painting & printmaking, Wichita State University, 1968
Professor of Art, Appalachian State University, 1986-2007

Eric grew up and completed his undergraduate studies in the Ozarks. His early interests in art, while derived from nature, began to evolve and focus with particular interest in mid-century abstract expressionism. Later the plastic fluidity of expressionism  and the static rigidity of hard edge painting began to merge into a combine. The current efforts are informed by contemporary and personal influences such as pattern, the dynamics of space and color, proportional systems, physics, and the interaction of color. This evolution has been nurtured by a number of peers, instructors, artists, friends, and curiosity over the years. 

ARTIST STATEMENT

A painting for me is a problem to solve rather than a task to complete. The galvanizing theme, usually derived from research, provides inspiration for the start of my process. Discovery and exploration are the motivation for the creative journey. This approach pushes creativity into a challenge that takes me beyond the mere manipulation of paint into decisions of “fit” and “pertinence”. These judgements are subjective in nature and are augmented by my years of exposure to art and artists. It is the attentive reflection of works of art from a variety of artists, media, and cultures that excite my sense of creativity.

The selected theme becomes a guide during the search for a solution while innovation and imagination provide the possibilities for resolution. The finished product illustrates an account of this continuous process of “do”, “evaluate” and “redo” until the piece reveals something new, unexpected, and edgy. Since the paintings have such energized arrangements, the viewer may search for the calm within the busy complex, order within turmoil.

The visual vocabulary of personal icons and patterns emerge from discovery, exploration, and invention. In this part of the creative process I’m looking for a fit. There needs to be a certain amount of simpatico of form and idea but also a certain amount of clash. Important decisions don’t happen in the middle ground.