Keltie Ferris, an artist with a unique approach to painting, embodies the essence of contradiction in his work. His abstract paintings, created through a myriad of techniques, explore the interplay between opposites, such as presence and absence, hard and soft, and opaque and transparent. This exploration of duality is a recurring theme in his practice, as he challenges the boundaries between different artistic mediums. Ferris's work is a testament to the power of contradiction, inviting viewers to contemplate the complexities of human experience.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Ferris's art is his use of body prints, a technique inspired by Jasper Johns. By covering his clothed body with oil and pressing it against paper, Ferris creates indexical markers of presence that have subtly documented his gender transition. This personal journey is reflected in his work, adding a layer of depth and meaning to his artistic exploration.
Ferris's exhibition during the pandemic, which included a monumental site-specific wall drawing layered with canvases, showcased his ability to create intimate and direct pencil marks on a large scale. This work, presented during a time of social distancing and mask-wearing, served as a powerful assertion of the artist's presence. The exhibition became a singular magnanimous gesture, allowing viewers to enter the intimacy of his practice and witness the intuitive and direct nature of his artistic process.
Ferris's background in artmaking is an intriguing blend of personal and familial influences. Growing up in Louisville, Kentucky, he was exposed to art through books and his mother's landscape paintings. His mother's interest in art and her teaching methods, which focused on formulas and techniques, had a significant impact on his early understanding of art. The influence of his brother and sister, both musicians, has also played a role in shaping his artistic perspective.
Ferris's work is a testament to the power of contradiction and the exploration of opposites. Through his unique approach to painting and his use of body prints, he challenges the boundaries between different artistic mediums and invites viewers to contemplate the complexities of human experience. His work is a reflection of his personal journey and a celebration of the beauty of contradiction.
