Biography
Douglas Karson, an American-born artist now residing in Bristol, embarks on a captivating journey that seamlessly melds art and philosophy. His self-taught artistic practice is a masterful fusion of colour, philosophy, storytelling, poetry, and ink on paper, with a primary focus on painting.
Kars...
Douglas Karson, an American-born artist now residing in Bristol, embarks on a captivating journey that seamlessly melds art and philosophy. His self-taught artistic practice is a masterful fusion of colour, philosophy, storytelling, poetry, and ink on paper, with a primary focus on painting.
Karson's unique approach lies in his unwavering commitment to a framework grounded in an experiential philosophy, a deep exploration of what it means to be alive. This approach opens up a realm of creative possibilities, where each artwork serves as a cross-cultural message with subtle political undertones.
At the core of his exploration is "THE RULES," an ongoing series inspired by a diverse array of sources, including Greco-Roman philosophy, Chinese mythology, Yogic theory, and Western philosophy. This eclectic blend serves both as a creative process and a manifesto, interweaving a tapestry of cultural narratives. They are colourful, bold, varied and captivating.
Karson's mark-making ink series is a vibrant celebration of movement, capturing the essence of simplicity through lines and minimalism. His art extends beyond the canvas, reaching into the realm of sculpture and experimentation with found and upcycled materials like wood, nails, wires, clay, screws, and metal.
In addition to his creative endeavours, Karson is a passionate advocate for artist communities. His commitment is evident through his involvement in organising over 30 group and solo exhibitions in the UK. He currently serves as the Founder/Director of Keep Art It Ltd, a company whose mission is to “Share Art Now”.
Karson's philosophy delves deep into the human experience, emphasising the unique nature of individual perception. He posits that life's journey initiates in red, evolves through an array of colours, and returns to red once more, symbolising an eternal voyage of self-discovery. Universal colours cannot exist because each individual occupies a distinctive place on their personal spectrum. He reminds us that our purpose is to experience light and to contribute to defining the world through our perceptions with emotions.
This philosophical foundation is the driving force behind Karson's prolific creative process, spanning a diverse range of artistic mediums. He transitions effortlessly from paintings and sketches to poems, cakes, songs, classes, and events. Beyond being an artist, he is a Michelin-standard French pastry chef, a yoga and meditation instructor, a musician, and a published poet.
Karson primarily works with acrylic on canvas and ink on paper, creating figurative, minimalist, and spacious pieces. Each ink-on-paper creation is a unique reflection of his diverse interests and personal experiences. His acrylic works reveal a consistent progression and evolution as he continually explores and advances his craft.
In essence, Douglas Karson's artistic practice is a vibrant, complex fusion of art and philosophy that transcends conventional boundaries. His work invites us to embrace the full spectrum of existence, appreciating the richness and diversity of life's colours. As an artist, philosopher, and advocate for artist communities, Karson enriches the world with his profound vision and deep appreciation for the colours that make life vibrant.
