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11 May 2012
Posted in
Arts -
General / Other
Exhibition at Mirada Fine Art: May 12th - June 10th
Artist Andrew Baird has enjoyed accolades from around the world for quite some time now. But this fifth-generation Coloradoan is excited to be opening his first local exhibit in over eight years. Baird, declared the 'Best Artist in Colorado' by the editors of 5280 Magazine, unveiled his newest body of work with an opening reception at Mirada Fine Art on Friday night, May 11th.
Striking from both a distance and when studied closely, Andrew Baird's paintings initially resemble the works of Jackson Pollock. However, upon further inspection, Baird's linear, larger-than-life portraits appear. The images are defined by value; vibrant color combinations used in a seemingly chaotic manner merge, resulting in an incredibly striking piece of art. The subjects seem to appear and disappear in a fantastical way, engaging every viewer.
As amazing as his works are, Baird's technique for creating the masterpieces is equally intriguing. Using a simple wooden 'stir stick' to drip acrylic paint onto a canvas on the floor, he initially creates a rough sketch. The first few colors lock in the features of the subject. Baird revisits the painting each day, adding new color and creating dimension with light and dark values. A paintbrush is never used.
"Each time, I drip paint to either lose the image or strengthen it," says Baird. "I build layers of color until the painting has the quality I'm striving for. Every painting takes on a fascinating life of its own. I like it that people study each painting and think about its creation – this is artwork that actively involves you. And when a viewer is invited to participate and enjoy, the art becomes more complete."
Baird's success in the art world has been far-reaching, attracting individual and corporate collectors worldwide, including actor Robert Redford and the Chicago Mercantile Exchange. His amazing pieces have been displayed in exhibits and galleries throughout the world. Mr. Baird earned his B.A. and M.A. in Fine Arts from the University of Northern Colorado, and has worked as an art educator and artist for thirty years. He currently resides in Evergreen, where he taught art in the high school for several years.
Mirada Fine Art, owned and operated by Steve and Jenny Sonnen, is located at 5490 Parmalee Gulch Rd. in Indian Hills.
Pictured above: Â Andrew Baird, Olivia, Acrylic on Canvas, 48" x 36"
