Avrel Menkes

Artist Statement

My landscape and abstract paintings, assemblages, and photographs are inspired by the sites, sounds, and cultures in the 82 countries I have visited. Using a variety of mediums, my art is diverse and interpretive. My versatility includes creating both realistic portraits, as well as impressionistic/expressionistic landscapes, and abstract paintings. My signature painting style embraces movement, color, and mark making in both oil and acrylic on canvas, linen, or cradled wood panel.

My travels have also afforded me the opportunity to capture the essence of multi-culture as I photographed people throughout the world, incorporating the unique and often awe-inspiring international terrane.

I'm presently also working on a series of nine assemblages, 'Behind Closed Doors', that incorporates, through painting, mixed media and photographs, a variety of unusual doors from houses in the many different countries to which I've travelled. Intrigued by the uniqueness of each door, my compilation of paintings and assemblages on this theme is inspired by curiosity as to who might be living behind these closed doors.

I am joyfully creating in my art studios in New York and Florida, equally happy that my art is a part of exhibits in museums and galleries!