Jesse Draxler is an American artist based in Minnesota, and is easily one of my favorite contemporary mixed-media artists {pretty easy to figure out, seeing how I’ve written about his work at least four times}. One more reason to love him? Jesse is a member of WAFA… which only makes sense considering that he really, truly is FA! Here’s who Jesse thinks is FA:

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

I am jealous of Mark Grotjahn.

I first came across Mark’s work at the Hammer Museum while on a recent trip to LA. I was instantly drawn to it both because of it’s subject matter and because of its size, most upwards of 6 feet in height. Upon closer viewing I also noticed that the entire color aspect of the particular work was laid down with colored pencil. I am a big fan of colored pencil, and I could tell that he was using my favorite brand; Prismacolor (this was later confirmed through some internet research.) Due to some personal experience I have a great appreciation for filling in large spaces with thick layers of colored pencil, so the technique (and undoubted hand cramps) resonated with me.

What also resonates with me is the push and pull between spontaneous mark making and design-like precision. Being able to see the process within a piece of work is always a bonus, and balancing the two extremes can prove very hard to pull off.

Even though the centrifugal, op-art, graphic rays have been done quite a number of times before, Mark’s work seems fresh and vibrant. The often subtle shifts of direction give the work an entrancing quality and the techniques / mark making mash up give it a natural zen-like presence. Big up Mark, big up.

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

… and big up to you to Jesse! Thanks so much for visiting!