Terrell Powell

Terrell paints in a variety of media including oil, acrylic, and oil pastel. Most works are oil or acrylic on canvas, while an increasing amount of work is being done on cutout metal shapes. Wood is also a primary surface for Terrell’s work. On some works Terrell uses modeling paste to build up texture on the surface of the painting and then draws, paints, or carves in the elements into this workable media. More paint may be applied after this surface has hardened. Terrell’s artistic influences include children’s artwork and outsider or primitive artists whose direct and bold approach to self-expression is refreshing and uninhibited. Terrell would like to convey this fresh and energetic quality in his work.

“I make paintings for myself which are reaction to the circumstances of my life. I consider them a documentation of my personal reality. Past experiences, dreams, and observation of everyday life inspire my work. I view paintings as a learning experience – a kind of therapy. I’m interested in the subconscious or intuitive selection of images that are incorporated into my paintings, especially those whose significance may only be made certain at some later point in time. Spontaneity is very important to me – the chance for just something to happen in a painting. For me the uncertainty of what will happen in a painting is an essential aspect of making art. There is something troubling about not knowing all the answers. I suppose that’s why I paint.”