Baltimore-based artist Calvin Coleman was one of 21 artists at Delta Sigma Theta’s Chicago alumnae chapter Gallery D’Estee for 2015. This year’s theme was Cultural Connections. As a self-taught artist who incorporates abstract expressionism and Fauvism, Coleman builds upon the canvas with an assemblage of heavy body acrylic paint, a variety of textiles and other mediums to embellish his uninhibited style of painting. Prior to painting full time, Coleman taught at the elementary level for 14 years before deciding to follow his passion In 2004. Coleman’s paintings have been shown in a number of galleries throughout the United States and across Europe.
Several of your works are named after Psalm 23. What is the significance?
Actually, these paintings were created to reflect Psalm 23, ‘The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want’. These images share the image of women concentrating on that particular scripture as it relates to them.
Talk about your overall approach to creativity.
My approach to art deals with peace—bringing serenity to the canvas– and what I try to do is incorporate very vibrant colors, as well as, silhouettes of individuals that represent an overall calm environment..
What inspires to you to create?
Life itself. The daily journey that you take, the lessons that you learn, that journey that you take to incorporate more peace into your life. Many of my paintings are of women. I enjoy the challenge of incorporating life’s themes into my paintings.
For more information:
www.calvincoleman.com
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