About the Richard Powers Art blog...

I have been a fan of the art of Richard Powers before I ever knew the man's name. Growing up reading SF as a child, I marveled at the abstract surreal images from many of the paperback covers from the 50's and 60's. But it was not until many years later in 2000 that I encountered The Art of Richard Powers by Jane Frank and discovered the name behind the art I had loved -- Richard Powers.

Powers led a double life. He was not only one of the most prolific commercial artists of his day, but he was also a prolific fine artist who maintained an annual solo show at the Rehn Gallery in NY (among others) for three decades. It is interesting to note that there was often very little difference between his fine art abstract paintings and his commercial art book covers -- quite a feat!

He worked in many styles and media, and experimented endlessly. Although he could easily paint "realism", he favored (and was more challenged by) abstraction. For me personally, his art "scratches many itches". I love abstract surrealism, and I love SF. Powers art brought these two together in a brilliant way. Additionally, there is a wonderful sense of nostalgia to many of his images, invoking the art styles of their times. But above all, Powers work simply captivates me!

My goal for this blog is to provide a hub for sharing information about Richard Powers and his art, as well as interesting observations about his process. I hope you enjoy.

John A Davis

Our Lady of Darkness

Our Lady of Darkness

Friday, August 15, 2014

Powers... in 3D!

Powers was constantly experimenting with different media and techniques.  Towards the end of his life he was still trying new things and new forms of expression.  In the early 90's, Powers created a series sculpted mixed media pieces.  Many of these were done as shadow boxes and contained painted elements as well as the sculpts.  I believe the sculpted elements were done with wire and terracotta.  I acquired this particular piece (40x26x5.5) from the Powers estate through Jane Frank, and I was told it was the first of Powers' sculpted piece sold.  They are fragile and the estate was concerned.  I'm happy to report it survived the trip!  Since then, more of Powers sculpted pieces have been offered.

You can see them through the Baldwin Hill Gallery http://www.baldwinhillframing.com/more-about-richard-powers/

From Richard Powers Art Blog
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