Jeff VanDyke

The edge of each painting is decorated with designs from Classical Greek pottery which eliminates the need for frames. They are "antiqued" to compliment  the surface of the painting without being obtrusive. The inspiration for this idea was ancient ceramic Puebloan ladles - the pattern on the handle of the ladles is sometimes different, but complement the pattern on the bowl. The combinations are endlessly interesting to me. 

These Greek designs have been utilized for thousands of years and provide a decorative familiarity, recognized universally.

As an artist, who has been influenced by Ancient Greek art (especially fabric patterns) and Southwestern pottery, I create images that express universality by using patterns that have appeared in various cultures. Although the work references the spiritual roots of modernism, the materials I use – carved wood, fabric, and metallic leaf – reflect basic decorative concerns and give my work a timeless quality that is both accessible and mysterious.

The paintings appear to change as the light changes, expressing the dual themes of the permanent and the ephemeral. The metallic leaf surfaces reference sacred art and reflect the changing ambient light to such a degree that the paintings appear to be completely different works of art at different times of day.  Also, since the surfaces are frequently carved, they change with the angle of light. While distinctly modern, the textured surfaces give each work a warm familiarity. 

All of my work is designed to be  compelling when viewed from a distance., but as the viewer is drawn closer, the paintings create a presence with textures and patterns that make the eye dance.