Ray Regan

Artist Statement:

The starting point for my work is the natural world. This might be anything from the colors in a rock to the flight of a bird. My process is to interpret those forces of nature and focus on elements that have a captivating quality that I can bring out to the viewer. The end result may be abstract or representational.

I come from northern Ohio, where the forces of nature were a big influence. Thunderstorms, deep snow, dense forests and the shores of Lake Erie- there was always plenty of interesting scenery and wildlife. I spent a lot of time looking at shapes and colors, and sketching and photographing them for art projects. At art school, I studied drawing, painting, scuplture and ceramics.

My professional art background is pretty varied. I have worked as a pattern designer, illustrator, photographer, film maker and composer. All these elements have provided valuable perspective for my artwork.

I have done many mural commissions in both commercial and residential spaces. This has given me a wider view of how art fits into peoples lives and living spaces.I alternate working in the studio with on site projects, often working directly with designers, architects, contractors and clients. This has been a good way to see how people view and perceive.artwork.

Video has added another dimension to my work. I create 'moving paintings'- often using abstracted natural forms as a starting point. The finished films are then projected to wall size as atmospheric elements for live events.