Warner Williams - Artist Statement

I began painting seriously at Stanford University around 1974. I studied very closely with the studio professors for 2 1/2 years (Frank Lobdell, Nathan Oliviera, Keith Boyle). Frank Lobdell, a student of Clyfford Still, became a mentor. Although most of my teachers were abstract painters, they encouraged me to paint from my heart, with an eye towards formal and expressive values.

I also studied a lot of Art History at the time. I came to the conclusion that evolution in art was definitely not linear, therefore I was able to ignore the advice of my contemporaries and follow my own path. Botticelli, Vermeer and Symbolism interested me more than conceptual art.

I graduated with distinction in 1976. I wasn't interested in any of the local graduate teachers, so I became a part-time carpenter and painted every chance I got. I started out painting in a symbolic mode. In 1984 I switched to a type of landscape portraiture, spatially layering found elements in a 3-dimensional receding space. I persevered in spite of commercial and critical indifference and poverty. Recently with the help of an agent I have been showing more. In 2001, I lost my job and received a Pollack Krasner grant. I was able to paint full-time and my work progressed rapidly. In February 2002 I had two paintings in a show at the Oakland Museum. The director of the Museum, Dennis Power even bought a large painting. Then in July, I had my first solo exhibition at a commercial gallery and I sold a large painting there. Lately I have been inventing a type of fiberglass print that pushes 3 dimensionality further than oil paint ever could.

I am hoping to sell more work. A grant at this time would be extremely helpful in allowing me to continue. Whatever happens, I know I will always paint.

2003