Fragments + Memories: Paintings by Todd Stahl
Ugly Duck Coffee
89 Charlotte St.
Dec 6, 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm

“Since I started making art as a teenager, I have been inspired by old things – patina, rust + frayed edges are my favorite parts of the world. The imperfection around us makes me excited. These feelings continue to compel me to create and share my vision with the world.

I start each painting by creating a collage of found wood pieces. Many times, these initial combines could stand alone as the work of art. I try to not let them become the object of affection and quickly start planning the portrait and thinking about the narrative that each element will help create.

I strive to let the portrait fragment, the story of the subject, and the feel of the wood pieces guide my process from there. As I choose old signs, text, and patterns to bring to the work, I aim to tap into our collective memory. I hope that each painting tells a new story and transports you to a place other than today, uncovering a new truth about the subject.”