Dean Kugler

I am an artist that focuses on the figure. I have been drawn to experiences that involved the human form from the time I was young. Whether drawing comics of superheroes, weightlifting, and wrestling in high school or pursuing kinesiology in college, the figure has always played a part in my life.

In all its beauty, crudeness and subtleties, the figure offers infinite opportunities to express feelings and emotions. There is also a historical context to the figure going back for thousands of years, starting with the earliest cave drawings. I like being part of that tradition.
As a representational figurative artist, I am trying to connect with the viewer beyond the initial visceral response to the work. Naturally, there is a “shared experience” when you are dealing with the figure, but I want to go further, so my work often requires more than simple observation.

By putting disparate elements together, within the same work, I can create an uncomfortable energy that challenges the viewer to resolve what they are seeing, thus providing for a greater connection between the artist and the viewer. I also use symbolism to communicate the story behind the work.

I have sold work to collectors all across the United Sta...

Black Hawk College AA - 1993
Western Illinois University BFA - 1995

Jan 2020 – “Rock Island Art Guild Fine Arts Exhibition.” Figge Museum. Davenport, IA.

Nov 2019 – “SOFA.” Gallery Victor Armendariz. Navy Pier. Chicago, IL.

Oct 2019 – “64 Arts National Juried Exhibition.” Sculpture award. Buchanan Center for the Arts. Monmouth, IL.

Oct 2019 – “Small show.” Abend Gallery. Denver, IL.

Oct 2019 – “Les Petites.” Bereskin Gallery. Chicago, IL.

Jun 2019 – “State of undress.” Gallery Victor Armendariz. Chicago, IL.

Nov 2018 – “SOFA.” Gallery Victor Armendariz. Navy Pier. Chicago, IL.

Sep 2018 – “Earth, wind and fire.” Multiple-person show. Bereskin Gallery, IL.

Sep 2018 – “64 Arts National Juried Exhibition.” Buchanan Center for the Arts. Monmouth, IL.

Jun 2018 – “Relic.” Two-person show. Quad City Arts. Rock Island, IL.

Mar 2018 – “Bloodsport.” Multiple-person show. Gallery Victor Armendariz. Chicago, IL

Nov 2017 – “SOFA.” Featured artist with “The Desecration of Adam” sculpture. Navy Pier. Chicago, IL.

Sep 2016 – “64 Arts National Juried Exhibition.” Sculpture grand prize (Desecration of Adam). First place painting (No Quarter: Carl). Buchanan Center for the Arts. Monmouth, IL.

Aug 2016 – “Real People 2016.” Juried show. T...