Art Reception: Justin Kellner

Art Exhibition @ Center Gallery

Northern Michigan Painter Justin Kellner will show his latest works in Center Gallery from August 2 – August 8. Opening Reception Friday, August 2 from 6-8 pm.

Gallery is open daily 11 am – 5 pm / (231) 334-3179
more information @ www.lakestreetstudiosglenarbor.com

Justin has said of his work, “My work is all Acrylic on Canvas, abstract landscapes, textural, realistic imagery of bird species. The paintings are part of an ongoing series and are representative of my current body of work. They give an impression of the natural areas I’ve explored, while informing the viewer about their environmental fragility. Very sensitive to their environments, birds are often a good indicator of the health of a particular ecosystem. In my paintings, I combine aggressive, abstract brushstrokes and textures with realistically rendered birds to create spaces that give the impression of erosion, change and isolation. While my work is informed by my research of environmental issues, my primary focus has become the hunt for the birds and their habitats. Searching out and identifying various species has led me to explore Michigan’s parks and wetlands. Rather than focusing on the loss of habitat, I’ve explored the unique environments of individual species, many of which are maintained by conservation efforts. While painting, I also explore. Drawing on memories, natural forms and textures from the environment, I work intuitively, creating abstract suggestions of the landscape that remind me of the places where I’ve sought out birds and wildlife.

My intent is to evoke memories and the sense of a place and time, while portraying the interrupted cycles existing throughout the natural world. Through my work, I hope to inspire others to more
deeply explore their local environment and to become invested in the health of its complex ecosystems.”