Translucent Fruit Paintings by Dennis Wojtkiewicz

 

In this series we look at the incredible, over-sized oil paintings of fruit by Ohio artist, Dennis Wojtkiewicz [voy-KEV-itch]. While the realism is impressive, it’s Wojtkiewicz’s use of light and translucence that allows each painting to take on a meditative quality. Regarding his work, Wojtkiewicz states:

“Each painting is constructed by beginning with a monochrome underpainting in the complement of the featured subject. Subsequent layers of semi-opaque through to transparent colors follow with up to ten passes before the end result is achieved. The process is in essence a modified version of techniques used by Northern European Masters, Vermeer being of the greatest in influence.
 
In mentioning Vermeer I would hope that, beyond technique, his influence in regards to light is readily apparent in my work. I’m also trying to approach a very traditional format, still life, in perhaps a more contemporary way – minimal in form yet very complicated in process.
 
There are a number of elements in the visual undertow which function as metaphor or representation of themes such as spirituality, relationships (or lack thereof), reproduction and, generally speaking, the transitory nature of most stuff. When I go into the studio it is with the intent of imbuing the paintings with a living spirit and to realize something that will connect with the viewer on a sensual if not metaphysical plane.”

 

Mr. Wojtkiewicz lives and works in Bowling Green, Ohio. He is a Professor at Bowling Green State University where he has taught painting and drawing in the School of Art since 1988. You can find his work at the following galleries: