The Luxury of Space | Trevett McCandliss On view through April 30, 2024 | Reception | April 12 from 6:30 – 7:30 PM
As an artist, Trevett McCandliss engages in a captivating exploration of space and form, intertwining perceptual and existential themes with a keen sensitivity to the rhythms of light and color. Born 1976 in New Hampshire, Trevett McCandliss discovered a profound connection to the world of art at an early age, and this passion has since blossomed into a distinctive and evocative body of work.
Inspired by Cezanne and the New York School, Trevett McCandliss’ artistic journey is a testament to the dynamic interplay between perception and abstraction. His creations reflect a bold and direct exploration of color and space, inviting viewers into a realm where the pulsing rhythm of his marks reveal a deeper reality.
With a BFA in painting from Syracuse University and further study at the New York Studio School of Drawing, Painting and Sculpture, Trevett McCandliss has honed his skills and deepened his understanding of the painterly tradition of modernism. This academic foundation serves as a springboard for his continued artistic evolution.
In addition to being a painter, Trevett McCandliss is an accomplished art director, graphic designer and photographer. His work in these areas has garnered over 350 awards from The Society of Publication Designers, The Type Directors Club, Print, How, Graphis and Communication Arts. .
In his constant pursuit of artistic excellence, Trevett McCandliss remains committed to pushing the boundaries of painting and drawing, always seeking new avenues for self-expression and connection with his audience. His work serves as a testament to the enduring power of art to evoke emotions, provoke thoughts, and bridge the gaps between diverse perspectives.
Trevett McCandliss currently resides and works in Patchogue, where he continues to evolve as an artist, weaving his unique narrative into the vibrant tapestry of the contemporary art scene.
Artist Statement
While rooted in the perceptual tradition of still life and figure painting, I embrace a modern aesthetic in which the meaning of a work of art is articulated principally through the rhythms of the marks on the canvas. It is a visual symphony, where each stroke contributes to the overall composition, guiding the viewer through a nuanced journey through an emotionally charged space.
In my work, the marks are like notes in a melody and the rhythm is the interval of space between them. Each stroke, whether deliberate or spontaneous, forms a unit in this visual harmony. The repetition, variation, and pacing of marks create a rhythm that elicits a visceral and sensuous response.
I find a profound fascination in the paradoxical beauty of so-called unfinished areas within each of my pieces. Contrary to conventional expectations, these areas do not merely exist as voids or placeholders but actively participate in the creation of volume, space, and form.
These unfinished areas actively participate in the formal rhythm of marks. Each stroke, deliberate or seemingly spontaneous, knits together in a cohesive visual language. This amalgamation is not haphazard; it is orchestrated chaos that, when viewed collectively, forms a gestalt – a unified whole that transcends the sum of its parts.
In essence, the rhythm of marks on the canvas is the heartbeat of my work, pulsating with the life force of creativity and invention. It shapes the meaning of the work, giving it a unique identity and inviting viewers to partake in a visual conversation that transcends the boundaries of spoken language.