Statement
Julian Kline orchestrates a fusion of technology with the tangible essence of painting, crafting pieces that exude both gestural dynamism and algorithmic ingenuity. In a dance between gestural abstraction and the rhythmic repetition reminiscent of minimalism, Kline's creations poetically navigate the contemporary landscape of fractured screens and the radiant glow of personal devices. His canvases bear intentional gestures or undergo a dance of randomness guided by the hand of computer code. Pixel-born brushstrokes, transferred through inkjet printing or meticulously applied by the artist's hand, transform the digital realm into a tangible, textured reality. Within the artist's studio, a modern tableau unfolds, where computers, cameras, printers, and digital phones collaboratively disrupt the conventional norms of painting, introducing delightful imperfections and deviations. These digital tools, catalysts of dissonance, align seamlessly with Kline's artistic vision of forging a perpetually morphing pictorial realm. The palpable tension within the arrangement of his works finds its genesis in the ever-evolving crucible of the artist's studio, capturing the essence of a continuously transforming artistic narrative.
Biography
In the pursuit of artistic fulfillment, Kline delved into a diverse range of mediums, from painting, drawing, photography, and collage to embracing the cutting-edge realms of Photoshop and Illustrator. During the college years at California State University of Fullerton, a deep immersion in the classics of world cinema, contemporary film, and obscure cinematic works fueled a unique perspective on art. In the realm of cinematic influence, profound perspectives emerged, guiding explorations into the post-processing manipulation of still images and compositions. This journey paved the way for unforeseen artistic outcomes, enriching the tapestry of the creative process.
Post-college, a transformative journey unfolded in Los Angeles at UCLA Extension, culminating in the acquisition of The Design Communication Arts (DCA) certificate. The initial foray into graphic design marked the genesis of a transition to traditional materials like gouache, watercolor, oil, and acrylic paint. This evolution paved the way for a captivating exploration of collage and digital photography. The integration of contemporary cameras and digital tools such as Photoshop and Illustrator became pivotal, enabling a seamless interplay between the tangible and the virtual, where the hand and brush converged with the technological realm of the computer and mouse.
Subsequent chapters of the narrative unfolded in Los Angeles, traversing the vibrant landscapes of Spain, and settling in the dynamic energy of New York. The School of Visual Arts (SVA) beckoned with an opportunity to venture abroad, with a transformative summer spent at the Escola de la Llotja in Barcelona, delving into oil paint and various materials, with a keen focus on the interplay between figuration and abstraction. Evenings were dedicated to immersing oneself in the rich tapestry of painting history within museums and contemporary art galleries. This immersive exploration continued in the bustling art scene of New York, offering a front-row seat to diverse artworks in museums, galleries, and auction houses. Presently, the artist calls California home, where the studio remains a space where tradition and technology harmoniously converge.