Evan Venegas – Manipulating the Grid

By Caitlyn Shea

Evan Venegas paints visual labyrinths that encapsulate the rhythm and pulse of the urban landscape.  His abstract paintings feature complex compositions and enticing color relationships. Venegas takes us on an aerial journey to NYC, and expresses his love for the ever-shifting city.  He does not work from photos, and instead relies upon his own experiences in the boroughs to navigate the puzzle-like environments that he concocts.

Although NYC is known for its unpredictable nature, the city was designed based on a grid; and that is exactly where Venegas begins laying out his paintings.  The grid is apparent in his paintings and gives them a strong sense of structure and order.  The order is then disrupted and pushed beyond its limits by tumultuous shapes that break into the predetermined planes.  Venegas explains: “I use the backdrop of the grid as a starting point. Then I allow myself to playfully connect, intercept and manipulate the spaces inside this simple structure. This is an expression of what I think happens in the city. “

Music is inherent in each painting; the painterly choices he makes are reminiscent of expressionist painters that were influenced by jazz.   Venegas’ father was a musician and he stressed the importance of continuously practicing.  Venegas recalls: “Through extensive practicing, you can reach a point where playing the right note becomes second nature. Then you have the freedom to improvise, using your intuition but with a sophisticated working knowledge. I made a seemingly rebellious decision to not become a musician when I was younger. I decided visual art was what I wanted to explore. I adopted the same principles my father taught me about playing music, but I use tone and variation of color as my musical notes.”

Not everyone sees the cities that Venegas creates; in fact viewers see many different objects and concepts in his paintings.  Venegas does embrace viewers bringing their own interpretations to his work.  He explains: “I never intended for people to have this experience. But I started to hear early on in my painting career that this is what was happening. It’s enough for me as an artist to make something that others can lose them self in and take a break from reality. Also, I am fascinated with the imagery people come up with in their minds.”

Evan is one of many artists exhibiting artwork at Sparkboom’s Artspace Unplugged. The work will be on display until August 14th at 20 Terry Street in Patchogue.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Caitlyn Shea is a professional fine art painter. She studied Studio Art and Art History at Pratt Institute and Skidmore College before graduating with a BFA from Adelphi University in 2011. Outside of her studio, Shea is captivated by the pluralism that exists in art today, and the ways in which individual artists define themselves and their practices in order to carve out a unique career. By interviewing participating SPARKBOOM^TM artists, Shea looks to develop a dialogue between practicing artists and an audience that does not only include other art experts, but people who have a newfound urge to become involved in experiencing the work of fresh, exciting artists.

Meishan Pan – Connecting with Human Emotions

By Caitlyn Shea

Meishan Pan creates striking, large scale paintings of the human face and body.  I was fortunate enough to view her work as it was being installed at Artspace Patchogue earlier this month.  Her powerful works have an immediate and strong presence in the gallery.  The paintings are left raw and unapologetically unframed.  Using a limited palette of black, white, and grays, human faces become the main focus of her paintings.  The facial expressions she chooses to portray run the gamut from tranquility all the way to pain and anguish.

Allowing room for drips and splatters, Pan says her paintings are inspired by her memories.  She works from photos that she takes herself.  She will have two paintings at Artspace Unplugged.  One is of a woman’s face from her series entitled “Because of You.”  The figure’s eyes meet our gaze and create a confrontational, yet elusive effect.  She describes the series as being about: “different emotions human beings face nowadays. Because people come into our life and cause us to be happy, frustrated, depressed and many emotions.”  She will also be showcasing a painting of an elderly man; she is fascinated by the narrative written across his face.  She says: “I personally like to draw old faces because of the attractions behind those faces. The lines and wrinkles left on their faces tell stories they have experienced in their life, it is a celebration of life.”

Pan learned to draw in China, where she was born and raised.  Her paintings are beyond portraits, capturing remarkable emotions and energetic mark-making.  Her work must be seen in person to be fully appreciated for their painterly quality and large scale magnitude.

Join us for Artspace Unplugged on August 9th at Artspace Patchogue. SPARKBOOM™ will be featuring over 40 artists and 4 live musical acts, delicious Craft Beer courtesy of Saint James Brewery and tasty Food courtesy of Mia’s River Avenue Deli. It is a free event open to all! RSVP here via Facebook.

 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Caitlyn Shea is a professional fine art painter. She studied Studio Art and Art History at Pratt Institute and Skidmore College before graduating with a BFA from Adelphi University in 2011. Outside of her studio, Shea is captivated by the pluralism that exists in art today, and the ways in which individual artists define themselves and their practices in order to carve out a unique career. By interviewing participating SPARKBOOM^TM artists, Shea looks to develop a dialogue between practicing artists and an audience that does not only include other art experts, but people who have a newfound urge to become involved in experiencing the work of fresh, exciting artists.

 

Good Vibes + Talent + Hard Work = Jake Furia

By Moe Tompkins

I first heard Jake Furia at a showcase back in February. For those of you that don’t know, I run a horn band and we were testing the waters out in Patchogue. Jake was the first real corner I turned in my ‘maybe singer-songwriters don’t suck as much as I thought’ revelation. I’ll never forget it. The first half of his show was just him on acoustic guitar, singing thoughtful lyrics and meaningful melodies. But then, some guys just started walking around behind him. They weren’t sound guys…I thought they might have been some really rude members of another band. One picked up a bass while the other sat behind the kit, and out of nowhere, halfway through his song they start playing! Jake picked up his electric and seamlessly blended soft acoustic pop into jammin’ rock. It was awesome. Obviously, I jumped at the chance to learn more about this guy.

Jake was born in Smithtown, but associates himself more with Shirley where he was raised and continues to live. If you can believe it, this guy started out on keyboard and alto sax. He started writing music while learning to play the guitar. His Mom got him some guitar lessons for Christmas when he was 14. He learned to play pretty well, was writing tunes and even learned to play ‘Wish You Were Here’ within about 2 months.

What I really like about Jake is his versatility. I was always taught that to adapt is to survive. The more things you can do, the better. That’s the main reason why I keep my cello chops up (didn’t know I played cello did you!?). Jake captures a plethora of sounds in is music. He plugs himself as ‘alternative rock/pop-punk-reggae with hints of hardcore and electro. For the ArtSpace show, he’ll be doing an unplugged set, with his backing band. ‘The Be Yourselves’ which features some of the best talent around, including Russel Benjamin, Derek McMahon, and Tameem Shaker.

So what else can you expect from Jake Furia? He has an LP slated to release this winter, ‘Where the Ends Fall Off.’ He also has a music video coming soon for his song ‘Meet me in LA’ that will feature Meghan Mass. Listen to the audio from his “The Acoustic EP” below:

You can also catch Mr. Furia at the Revolution Bar & Music Hall on the 23^rd, and East Islip lanes on the 29^th. If I haven’t sold you by now, just come to the Artspace Unplugged show on Saturday night. Jake will be there, and food, and art, but mostly JAKE. RSVP here via Facebook!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Moe Tompkins, a native of Islip, New York, holds a double degree in jazz studies and music education from the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music (CCM). Upon acceptance to the College-Conservatory of Music he began simultaneous study both with Ray Charles Orchestra alumnus Marc Fields, and Tim Anderson of the Dayton Philharmonic. For several years he worked as a highly-in-demand trombonist on the Cincinnati scene and beyond playing everything from salsa, to reggae, neo-brass band sharing the stage with the likes of Streetlight Manifesto, The Aggrolites, and Foxy Shazam, just to name a few. He currently resides in Islip, working with the Long Island Arts Alliance and finally pursuing his own musical vision with his original group Slang (facebook.com/slangthebandli). When not making music, Moe can typically be found enjoying horror movies, fusion jazz, or White Castle.

Dan Kudreyko – “Satisfying His Craving for Color”

“Intractable Brain”

By Erin Corrigan

With 10 years of experience working in the position of a Multimedia Visual Artist and Environmental Technician, Dan Kudreyko is someone you could say is lucky enough to be able to thrive each day in something he is utterly passionate about. With his talents ranging from projects such as vinyl wrap, accessory design and web development, to even vendor production, screen-printing and mural projects, it is safe to say that they each play a significant role in Kudreyko’s day to day process of creation. Each and every one of these crafts serves as a muse in his life, while also providing a quality range of expressive flare.

For someone like Dan, the need for exploration and new experiences are simply a must. While even staying within the realm of the United States, he has grown quite fond of the Pacific Northwest and the immense beauty it has to offer. From glacier lakes, beaches and rain forests, Kudreyko says, “Long Island has no idea!”

“Positions of Sleep”

Currently, Kudreyko is titled as the Co-founder of a network determined to accompany the integration of visual artists, musicians, multimedia services and craft production, which is known as ‘The Gypsy Collective’. Among the professional providers and creative talent working together within the system, they specialize in subjects such as fashion, curating, design, live performances, culinary and much, much more.

You can see Dan Kudreyko’s smooth and colorfully thought out paintings and designs at SPARKBOOM’s “ArtSpace Unplugged” event Saturday August 9th from 6-10PM located on 20 Terry Street in Patchogue. With this occasion featuring over 40 different artists, four live musical acts, free Craft Beer courtesy of Saint James Brewery and a selection of tasty treats thanks to Mia’s River Avenue Deli… It sort of makes it impossible for you not to come. So RSVP here via FB and I promise you won’t regret it! For more of Dan Kudreyko’s innovative creations, visit: http://www.thegypsycollective.com/home-page/paintings.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Erin Corrigan is an aspiring writer with an open mind. She believes that music, art and poetry are the essential nutrients for every soul. Giving a voice to the budding faces of the literary and fine arts community is what she’s here to accomplish!

Nicholas Raffel – Reading Between the Lines

By Erin Corrigan

“Far Far Away”

From sleep deprived doodling, to articulate drawings woven into graphic design. Nicholas Raffel, currently situated in East Quogue Long Island, is not your ordinary artist. Nicholas initialized his hobby for drawing directly out of high school, while also attempting to narrow down some sort of career goal. Among the time Nicholas spent with his pen to paper, an overwhelming sense of peace and solitude began to take hold of him. This exercise within escapism began to play a significant role in his life, as well as his art work. Nicholas himself claims that, “this notion of introspection has continued to be the real underpinning of all my work.”  This, claiming to have started as nothing more than a therapeutic, release from the tight grip of insomnia, as well as a busy mind.

Nicholas is someone who draws inspiration from non-visual things, for example the melody projecting from a favorite record or even the sound of something being read aloud. He believes his past, having touched base with being a musician, also adds an element of reasoning behind notions on motivation. Aside from auditory stimulus, Nicholas likes to keep a close eye on comic strips. He even claims to be particularly drawn to Peanuts comics. Nicholas quotes, “Obviously my stuff is a bit more ‘out there’ than Charlie Brown, but I try to make sure that there’s a sort of youthful naiveté that comes through.”

“Catch Some Z’s”

Although Nicholas himself has finally discovered his calling for the study of graphic design, he says that he is still trying to locate and assemble the missing puzzle pieces. In order to pursue a career in the name of art, you must be willing to try new things and experiment. Nicholas says that when he first followed this desire to draw, he was doing a whole lot of painting. Once he proceeded through his painting spell, he realized it was simply not for him, and that the work he was producing what just not up to par with what he believed to be acceptable. Now, although Nicholas found no sanctuary in the art of painting, he truly believes that it was beneficial to the way in which he draws today.

You can view more of Nicholas Raffel’s funky, eye-tripping drawings at SPARKBOOM™’s “ArtSpace Unplugged” event Saturday August 9th from 6-10PM located on 20 Terry Street in Patchogue. With this occasion featuring over 40 different artists, four live musical acts, free Craft Beer courtesy of Saint James Brewery and a selection of tasty treats thanks to Mia’s River Avenue Deli… It sort of makes it impossible for you not to come. So RSVP here via FB and I promise you won’t regret it! If you simply cannot wait until then, check Nicholas’ stuff out here.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Erin Corrigan is an aspiring writer with an open mind. She believes that music, art and poetry are the essential nutrients for every soul. Giving a voice to the budding faces of the literary and fine arts community is what she’s here to accomplish!

Geraldine Lozano – Unfolding the Riddle Inside the Enigma

By Erin Corrigan

From the essence of the largest city in the Northern Peruvian rainforest, emerged a beautiful and talented woman by the name of Geraldine Lozano. An editor of reality, as well as a preserver of delicate spaces, Lozano’s work is inspired by courageous individuals, development of transformation and the captivating, natural elements of the universe.

A wide range of mediums fit the palette of Ms. Lozano quite effortlessly. With a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in multidisciplinary studio, alongside a Master of Fine Arts degree in conceptual art, it is easy to recognize her involvement and dedication to an assortment of varying artistic angles. Geraldine quotes, “The medium is not the important part of making art. If I have an idea that involves a skill I don’t possess, I’ll take a class to learn it to make my art work.”  Her artistic mediums comes from a versatile list, allowing her to concentrate different creative ideas into very divergent beings. Painting, photography, cinematography, sculpting and installation each play an important, possessive role when it comes to expressing her daily-dose of inspiration.

When following through with a desire or career indicative of art, Geraldine conveyed the importance behind challenging ones talent, as well as being true to oneself. She claimed that once she began to pursue her career as an artist she would do whatever takes in order to stay within the realm of creative fields. Geraldine also asserted the importance in terms of distancing herself from becoming too picky. The title held in front of jobs such as a textile designer, photo editor or an art consultant were irrelevant; as long as the trade called for the use of her imagination, along with a healthy dose of art, she knew her creative spirit would be more than satisfied.

You can view Geraldine Lozano’s mysteriously powerful works of art at SPARKBOOM’s “ArtSpace Unplugged” event Saturday August 9th from 6-10PM located on 20 Terry Street in Patchogue. With this occasion featuring over 40 different artists, four live musical acts, free Craft Beer courtesy of Saint James Brewery and a selection of tasty treats thanks to Mia’s River Avenue Deli… It sort of makes it impossible for you not to come. So RSVP here via FB and I promise you won’t regret it! You can also pay a visit to her webpage at geralozano.com.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Erin Corrigan is an aspiring writer with an open mind. She believes that music, art and poetry are the essential nutrients for every soul. Giving a voice to the budding faces of the literary and fine arts community is what she’s here to accomplish!

The Inner Workings of Oliver Peterson

“Big Top”

By Jenna Weis

Inspiration can come from almost anywhere in any form and according to artist Oliver Peterson the world offers such an abundance of creative influences that drive his artistic endeavors. From history, literature, and films to the paranormal and comic books, just about anything worth experiencing is of interest to the artist. Using found materials that intrigue his senses, Peterson constructs eye-catching collages of expressive and energetic responses to the subject matter at hand. With a BFA from the School of Visual arts and an MFA in writing from Long Island University, his artistic eye and experience as a journalist shine through his pieces that not only are visually compelling but also communicate with the viewer.

“Elegy”

The physical act of art making is a main factor in how these pieces are produced. Each element relating to the next then arranged based on the particular subject matter and Peterson’s creative conscience. Peterson explains “Visually, it just happens through small decisions and what’s available to me at the time. Content-wise, it can be random, but more and more I find themes and follow them through as I go. I rarely set out to do anything. I prefer to let the process be my guide.” Combining paint, patinas, paper and relevant materials his 2D pieces work so naturally all together and individually. It is as if these materials, colors, and ideas were meant to coincide within one work of art.

“Apes On Planet”

Peterson’s more recent journey has delved into his love of comic books and action figures. With an immense toy collection of his own, he removed them from their boxes and took photos as a more laid back and light hearted way let out his creativity. He says “Photographing them is a way to interact and have fun with my toys in a way that’s at least a tiny bit more adult than sitting on the floor and playing with them!… The toys photos provided a way for me to be creative without all the pressures and demands I had set for myself with the other medium.” When I asked if there was a certain message to his work he said there wasn’t, just his way to let it be known that he is present in the world .Or as he cleverly puts it… “This is me. Here’s all the s*** that’s making noise in my head. I want it out and you seem to enjoy looking at it!”

Come view Oliver’s work at SPARKBOOM’s Artspace Unplugged event August 9^th at 20 Terry Street in Patchogue from 6-10PM. There will an abundance of art to see, live acoustic music and craft beer and food courtesy of Saint James Brewery and Mia’s River Avenue Deli! RSVP here via FB!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jenna Weis grew up on Long Island and graduated from Commack High School in 2007. She received her Associates Degree in Visual Arts from Suffolk Community College then went on to receive her Bachelor’s Degree in Art History and Criticism from Stony Brook University. This is her second summer working for SPARKBOOM^TM, first as Lead Blogger. She hopes the blog will really engage readers to want to see more of the artists work at our SPARKBOOM^TM events and help further promote the artists themselves.