Spotlight on Luther Von Krinkle

Luther has been a SPAG member since 2019, making crucial contributions to the growth and organization of the group. As a former art professor, he brings invaluable input for members looking to expand their skills and approach to art.

We asked Luther to give us a glimpse into his creative process and his current body of work.

Q: What inspires you to make art?

A: The fact that as humans we are able to look at a mark on a surface and instantly recall the object or idea it refers to, the smell, sound or feel of that object, a memory associated with the object and many other abstract ideas, all from a mark. It’s remarkable, no pun intended. I am intrigued by how different colors and visuals can convey specific reactions from viewers.

Q: What are some of the most memorable project you have worked on?

A: I did a series of abstract landscapes with wild colors and shapes. I tried to keep the scale and compositions familiar, so there was no mistaking the pieces for anything other than a landscape. The abstractions allowed me to communicate various messages that would have been too subtle on a more realistic painting.

Q: Do you have a favorite painter?

A: Tough question. I am definitely partial to the masters of the Renaissance. There is so much thought and execution behind their classical façade; the ideas and abstractions they put forth are so universal and timeless that they are still very much valid today. If I were to pick a “modern” painter, I don’t think anyone rivals Van Gogh.

Q: What are you working on now?

A: I am experimenting on painting large versions of my small pen and ink doodles. I am curious to see whether the feeling and message translates at a large scale. Besides that I am also working of a series of watercolors from travels through the Southwest.

For more images of Luther’s artwork, click the button below.