SDAN Member - Daniel Van Gerpen
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Untitled
© Daniel Van Gerpen

(Oil on Canvas)

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As the wind blows a tune through the trees one can feel the motion of life trying to infiltrate everything around it. Old buildings take on new character as they age and begin to tell stories; begin to tell histories that are intriguing and unique. The voice of nature can whisper or shout, but it can always be heard if one is willing to listen to the sound. Take the time to wait for the beat of nature and the reward will be incomparable.

Each piece that is created is a narrative of my experiences, my recollections of nature and my memoir of my interaction with a place, person, or idea. I am constantly fascinated by processes and how things develop to their current states. To think about all of the processes involved in creating a wind beaten barn with striped paint and a slight lean is a matter of poetry within itself. Similar processes are what develop a weathered face and callused hands. The realization of the similarity of these occurrences is what led to a common theme in my work: the interactions of man and nature. The constant ebb and flow from new to old is a dynamic activity that is in constant motion creating objects and people with deep character and history. This interaction and constant state of fluctuation creates an interesting tension that resembles a dance.

I attempt to paint the landscape, both wild and civilized, in a manner that simplifies the idea in an attempt to better understand it. In simplifying my idea I am expecting more from the viewer. The viewer is asked to take these images and draw a connection to their own experiences. Within the simplicity, though, lies a complexity. The complexity being the layers. I am fascinated by layers of paint, both thick and thin. Each layer references the previous but also states its claim for its own presence. This process is similar to the weathering process. The end result is simplification through process.

I was born and raised in South Dakota and have spent most of my life there. Through countless hours of observation and endless drives and walks through the countryside I have developed a great appreciation for the land and for the people. My inspiration comes from actual experiences as well as internal visions. During my time at the University of South Dakota I gained a greater understanding of the processes and ideas of creating art. One of the things that I learned was to paint what you know. Another is to paint what you do not know so that you can better understand it. Both of these techniques have influenced my ideas and my vision.

Autumn Trail
© Daniel Van Gerpen

(Oil on Canvas)

$POR

Come and see my work in person.

At Craftsman Creek Studio and Gallery at 420 E. 8th St. in Sioux Falls, SD. www.craftsmancreek.com

Valley Art Gallery
Main Street in Old Town Salinas



Central Coast Art Association 52nd Juried Show.
Pacific Grove Art Center.
568 Lighthouse Ave, Pacific Grove, CA
April 2 through May 20th
Reception April 8 

at the break of day
© Daniel Van Gerpen

(Oil on canvas)

$POR

In the month of June I will be the featured artist at the Valley Art Gallery in Salinas CA. The title of the show is "Inherent Rhythm" There will be an opening reception on Friday, June 1st from 5-8pm

sunset drive

(oil on canvas, 30"x30")