John Rae: For me making art is an impulse. It is the tool that best helps me to define the crazy nexus of information, observations and emotions that cram my cranium, a way to create a scenario with balance and harmony (or lack thereof) that feels honest, an expression to reflect onand hopefully share with others.

I often include found/repurposed materials and unconventional/unpredictable mediums. By adding these components to the process, I am introducing elements outside of my control, elements to react to, a conversation which creates a dialogue broader than my own narrow perspective. I like to experiment; I find it rewarding to create something unexpected, but also to use my rendering skills to create a contrast and add to the dialogue. My subject matter usually stems from an experience of ‘place’. I am essentially a landscape contortion artist.

John Rae exhibits his works in galleries and art spaces including Pierogi, Williamsburg Art Center and Yellow Bird Gallery, Newburgh, New York. Born in Brooklyn, Rae currnetly lives in Maplewood, New Jersey.