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< Artists
John Scanlon, Gestures: Work on Paper
John is a native of Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. He has created
art from early childhood when at eight years old, a piece
of sculpture made from a building brick was taken by a
neighbor and added to her serious collection. That started
it.
Fifteen years later, he was accepted to the Center For
Creative Studies College of Art and Design (C.C.S.) where
he was schooled in the fundamentals, and in the classic
manner, by Detroit's "Old Masters": Sarkis Sarkesian,
Marco Nobili, Nick Buhalis and other notables.
After spending two years at C.C.S. he was asked to teach.
The artist took the cue and left to pursue challenges
in graphic, exhibition, architectural and industrial design.
He is a member of I.D.S.A. and A.I.G.A. He has been granted
two patents and is currently working on others.
John spent twenty-five years with Daimler-Chrysler as
an art director, designer and manager. Now retired, he
does what he was meant to do — make art. His passion,
his journey.
His work is represented in private and corporate collections
in the U.S. and abroad. John makes his home in Interlochen,
Michigan and can be reached at (231)275-3608.
About "Gestures” and other Works on Paper
These pieces are one-of-a-kind drawings; not prints. This
collection is inspired by Asian calligraphy and brush
painting. I am fascinated by the spontaneity and grace
found in works by the Zen Masters. The complex simplicity
is astounding. Outwardly, there are lines and areas of
tone, but they contain illusionary visions and understated
strength. They possess spontaneous fluidity and grace.
I try to imbue my work with these same qualities. My work
may seem tenuous or fragile at times, but each piece contains
a fractional composition within. I find courage and beauty
in the simplest stroke, the softest cloud-like form. This
is why I work in black media... for its ability to confront
the viewer.
There is little to hide in a single committed stroke.
I believe for someone to enjoy my work, they must be able
to see — not just look — but really see, into
the image, to absorb some meaning, however personal.
I think this is where the magic lies, the smile of discovery.
This is what I hope to illicit from the viewer... the
knowing smile.
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