Sticking Your Oar In Painting

Kevin Cross is an Irish artist based in New York City. He was born and raised in Limerick, Ireland. In 2006 he moved to New York where he began his art practice. His work has been shown nationally and is held in private collections around the world. Artist Statement: In my artistic practice, I am captivated by the power of color gradients to evoke emotion and create mood. Each hue flows into the next, forming a visual language that speaks to the complexity of human experience. Through the delicate harmonious color interactions and the juxtaposition of hard edge lines with soft smooth gradients, I am able to transform the canvas into a vivid landscape of feelings, inviting viewers to embark on a personal journey through my work. The relationship between the viewer and the painting is central to my creative process. I believe that every observer brings their unique perspective, background, and emotional history, allowing the artwork to resonate on multiple levels. My aim is to create an immersive experience where the viewer not only sees the colors but feels their vibrancy and depth. By harnessing the dynamic nature of color gradients, I explore themes of transition and transformation and the quest for balance, mirroring the flux of our internal landscapes. The smooth blending of tones serves as a metaphor for life’s ever-changing emotions. As viewers immerse themselves in the layers of color, I hope they find solace and a sense of belonging, creating a shared space of understanding and reflection. In essence, my work exists to capture the unspoken, to communicate what often lies beyond verbal expression. It is a celebration of emotion—raw, authentic, and beautifully complex. Through my art, I aim to capture the essence of this pursuit for equilibrium. Some days, the creative process feels effortless, and the colors blend seamlessly, much like the moments of joy that punctuate life in the vibrant city that is New York. On other days, the struggle is palpable; the canvas can seem resistant, making each decision feel like an uphill battle. These contrasting experiences inform my work and resonate with the viewer, reflecting the highs and lows of our shared human experience.