Richard Keen
Medium: Abstract Landscapes, Abstraction, Painting, Sculpture
Artist Statement
My artwork is deeply rooted in the concept of place, while also inviting viewers to interpret and find their own meaning. Drawing inspiration from landscapes and coastal vistas where I hike with my family and dogs, my work reflects the dynamic relationship between environment and experience. It explores the connection between place and perception through bold color, geometric forms, and the intersection of natural and built environments.
I am particularly drawn to the “spaces between” objects, where geometric shapes and patterns naturally emerge. My process involves juxtaposing natural hues with amplified colors, creating visual contrasts that evoke both familiarity and intrigue.
I apply and manipulate paint using a variety of techniques—scraping, wiping, brushing, and spraying—utilizing palette knives, metal and rubber scrapers, and even repurposed materials like old credit cards. I balance crisp, defined lines with expressive brushwork, often incorporating tape to create sharp edges. Additionally, I explore unconventional mark-making, using altered rollers, shoe treads, and textured objects in a printmaking-like fashion to add depth and variation to my surfaces. Beyond painting, I continuously challenge myself by working with other mediums, expanding my practice into sculpture and printmaking.
