Return

Russ Revock

ARTISTíS STATEMENT
To some extent, most of my pieces begin as a self-portrait, albeit a metaphorical rather than literal one. An entire world ó figure, environment, space, and atmosphere ó is devised within the borders of the image, all for the purpose of creating a distinct psychological setting. Every aspect of the subject matter is indirect and suggestive rather than illustrative and straightforward. Ambiguous biomorphic and architectural elements appear in a symbolic or metaphorical way to suggest various fears, temptations, anxieties, and turmoil imbedded in the human psyche. Anatomical forms introduce a human presence without literal representation. Figures and elements sometimes appear solitary or isolated, implying alienation and disaffection, while at other times they interact in uneasy communion.

I attempt to challenge the viewer by combining non-literal and symbolic imagery with universal human concerns in such a way as to ask rather than answer. A piece that merely provides answers is dead, stagnant, unchanging. A viewer has but to glance, then move on. A piece that asks questions, however, never stops changing and invites the viewerís emotional involvement. Even if no ìuniversalî answer is obtained, the intellectual and emotional journey has been mutually beneficial for both the viewer and the artist. My ultimate intent is always to engage the viewer without oversimplifying, to challenge without alienating, and to seek common emotional ground.