GREG CHAPMAN / SELECTED ARTWORK / BIOGRAPHY / ARTIST STATEMENT / INTERVIEW / PAST EXHIBITIONS
Greg Chapman Interview
La Playa Gallery: Hi! Thanks for taking the time to talk with us. Can you tell us your name, where you live and a little bit about your past?
Greg Chapman: My name is Greg Chapman. I was originally born in Indiana but migrated to Southern California’s “Inland Empire” at an early age, where my wife and I still reside. I have always been drawn to art, starting with drawings and crayons. My mother was a traditional oil painter and, while my art is anything but commonplace, she was my inspiration.
LPG: Can you give us a brief overview of the work you create?
GC: My art is difficult to categorize. I believe it exists at the intersection of impressionism, expressionism, and abstraction - always an interpretation of my experiences.
LPG: How and when did you get started?
GC: My career as an Architect occupied most waking moments until age 42 and I began seriously painting around the year 2000. I started exhibiting in 2014.
LPG: What motivates you to create new work?
GC: It is such an honor when my art become part of folks’ everyday lives, where they hang it in their homes and live alongside it every single day. I like to think that my interpretations of color, light, and movement enhance their well-being.
LPG: Is there a specific series you are currently creating and what is the inspiration behind it?
GC: Nature is a big part of my inspiration. Currently, trees have become a major focus. Oaks and Palms with their striking silhouettes are big hits with my collectors.
LPG: What is the most indispensable item in your studio?
GC: My digital camera and ink fountain pen, both are constant traveling companions. The camera records images for later processing and the fountain pen allows me to creatively interpret the scenes. I never try to replicate the photographic images. Instead, I like to bring out shapes and compositions that are pleasing and inspirational.
LPG: Do you have a routine you follow for creating or only work when inspiration hits?
GC: While there is no set time or duration, I find that inspiration always follows practice so I try to sketch or paint, at least a little bit, every day.
LPG: Do you collect anything and does it influence your work?
GC: I don’t “collect” anything specific. However, I do love nature and hike and backpack whenever I have the opportunity. From my adventures, I will bring home a small rock or two from the various mountain peaks or canyons that I visit. We have a large glass vase that they all pile into. It’s my way of remembering to be a little adventurous every day!
LPG: What artist or artists have influenced you the most?
GC: I appreciate an eclectic mix of artists and styles. However, Van Gogh, Picasso, and Monet are among my historical favorites. Contemporary artists include Erin Hansen, Judith Bergerson, Erica Hawkes, Stephen Quiller, Rene Wiley, Peg Fowler, Peter Wileman, and Tony Allain.
LPG: Support for each other is so important. Locally, what artist excites you the most?
GC: Erin Hansen in San Diego creates exciting, dynamic colorful compositions. She has a delightful personality and is a fantastic business person – traits that should inspire every artist!
LPG: Well, thank you for letting us into your creative world. It's been a pleasure and we are really looking forward to featuring your work at La Playa Gallery!
GC: It is always a pleasure to work with La Playa Gallery and I appreciate the opportunity to be part of your latest show. Thank you.