Kyle Surges
Region: Midwest
City / State: Homer Glen, IL
My paintings are derived from close visual observation of subjects
that are primarily manufactured items. I find beauty in these
items, and I enjoy the challenge of accurately re-creating them
in paint. For me, a smooth panel, free of the interrupting canvas
texture, is the ideal surface on which to paint.
Pop artists utilized mass-produced objects to create a dialogue
between high and low culture. My work is rooted in that dialogue.
I consider myself a sort of pop realist. My choice of objects is
based on the awareness of nostalgia. Often, nostalgic items will
encourage the viewer to relate, using personal memories or
experiences, and I find this makes the painting interactive and
engaging. The nostalgic pieces that appeal to me are usually
simple items that have great American cultural significance. For
me, they have become embodiments of importance, excellence,
and sincerity. These are objects that demand close observation in
order for me to correctly present them. In my opinion, accurately
representing these objects in paint is the only clear method of
capturing their iconic beauty.