Scott Lewis

Artist Statement

I create paintings and drawings that are semi-abstract and expressionist with the subjects detailed in extreme texture, musculature and vibrant color. In effect the subjects are psychologically interpreted. Their personalities, thoughts, drives and moods are visually manifested. I am fascinated by what lays beneath the surface of the shiny, clean, and accepted. What appears normal might be something totally different and disorientating in closer examination. The elegant tuxedo that is now aged, faded and threadbare. The amusement park that once was new, bright, and full of laughter but is now seedy, run down almost sighing. Happy paint chipping away to reveal a rusted damaged body. The human figures that have been modified and scarred by surgeries, some needed and some in vain. Masks and costumes to disguise feelings and appearances.
In my art I explore the netherworld setting of urban and emotional decay. Behind the solid complexities of a cityscape, lays a slow colorful rot that slowly seeps into both structure and subject. I focus on those freeze framed moments that capture the juncture when subject and setting are almost familiar, almost relatable, but intensely skewered.
Growing up one of my influences was the transparent anatomy pages that when flipped, revealed blood and muscles intense and brilliant. I take a similar approach in creating my subjects. My objective is to expose and visualize their thoughts, urges, fears, and disappointments. Another significant influence is my growing up near Coney Island. Being exposed from a young age to its intoxicating colors, smells, sounds and the myriads of people, continues to remain with me.
My work is accompanied by my original short story “titles” which explore and delve into my subjects. These stories range from a few paragraphs to several pages and serve as guide to the action and subjects being portrayed as well making my characters real, complex and relatable. Both art and stories complement each other and give the viewer a total view of my vision.