Today we’d like to introduce you to Daniel Curran.
Hi Daniel, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
Rather than revisiting a story I’ve told before, I’d like to share the evolution of my approach to painting, which has been a journey marked by continual exploration.
When I first began painting, I worked on these flat, 2-D tropical landscapes. I was in love with creating little worlds that I could imagine stepping inside. I was also exploring the world of oil paint and felt drawn to its rich texture and depth. As I studied my own paintings, I found myself fixated on the brushstrokes, as if they were calling out for more texture.
This became a crucial period of experimentation and discovery. I started layering on more and more oil paint, creating these thick, textured surfaces. At first, it was all pretty rough and loose, kind of like messy brushstrokes, but it laid the groundwork for something bigger.
My goal ultimately became about creating a fusion of sculpture and painting, emphasizing the material as much as the subject matter, but layering thick coats of oil paint was expensive, not to mention the drying time, which seemed endless at times. I was determined to figure this out, so I sought out alternative methods.
This is when I discovered modeling paste. It was a game-changer, letting me build up texture without the long wait. And then I switched to acrylics, which dry so much faster. This allowed me to keep refining those sculptural elements and really dig into layering techniques that I was developing at the time.
Over the past two decades, this fusion of sculpture and painting has emerged as a signature aspect of my style. Each painting now begins with 3 to 4 layers of sculpted texture, building depth and dimension off the canvas. This is complemented by 40 or more layers of paint and washes, along with a final clear gloss coat that enhances the richness of the colors. My aim is to create works that are not just visually compelling but also tactilely immersive.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
As I developed this approach to painting, I faced some challenges along the way. Initially, the high cost of paint and the lengthy drying times of thick layers of oil paint were obstacles. When a painting didn’t work out as expected, reusing canvases with all that texture meant I had to rip off and re-stretch the canvas. In the early stages, I dealt with issues like the paste cracking or accidentally cutting into the canvas while shaping it. I also had to find ways to prevent the modeling paste from drying out too quickly, as it becomes harder to shape once it sets.
Finally, the painting process itself is an ongoing learning experience, often presenting unexpected challenges along the way. However, each challenge presents an opportunity for growth. Every mistake and accident lead to valuable discoveries. These obstacles have fueled my determination to continually push the boundaries of my paintings.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Throughout my 27-year journey as a painter, I’ve developed a unique style that combines painting and sculpture to create vibrant, heavily textured artworks. With a background in painting and sculpture from the Atlanta College of Art, I focus on capturing the essence of subjects, particularly landscapes and iconic figures in music and pop culture. My work has always been about shared experiences and memories. From familiar places on earth to familiar faces we know.
One of the proudest moments in my career came in 2018 when I was offered the opportunity to paint live at a weekly event at Park Tavern in Atlanta. Overcoming the fear of painting in front of an audience was a significant milestone that propelled my career forward. Since then, I’ve had four solo exhibitions and participated in other live events, large art markets, festivals, and public art projects.
I believe what sets me apart is my dedication to creating visually compelling and tactilely immersive artworks, inviting viewers to experience art in a unique way. Through the use of textured layers, I aim to bring depth and dimension to my paintings, encouraging the viewer to engage with the surface on a sensory level.
What matters most to you? Why?
What matters most to me as an artist is making connections through my work, celebrating shared experiences and memories of the world we share. This is because I believe that art has the power to transcend barriers and unite everyone. By creating pieces that resonate with others on a personal level, I aim to evoke emotions, spark conversations, and inspire reflection. In doing so, I hope to contribute positively to the human experience and foster a sense of connection and understanding among individuals, regardless of our differences.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.danielcurranart.com
- Instagram: Instagram.com/danielcurranart
- Facebook: Facebook.com/danielcurranart
- Twitter: Twitter.com/danielcurranart
- Youtube: YouTube @danielcurranart
Image Credits
Brittany Curran
