Helen Kohnke
Artist Statement
In a world of constant artificial stimulation, I find it increasingly important to seek out nature's unnoticed. From the vibrant colors of a decaying leaf, the seemingly simple shape of a small rock, there's a subtle yet powerful essence in our natural surroundings that I fear we are losing and that I want to hold on to. I paint in order to communicate my open and intimate relationship with nature and shine a light on the complex beauty that is often overlooked. Using an abstract approach to representational life, I unpack the complexities of my subject and reveal a heightened focus on the spiritual and psychological qualities of the physical world.
CV
EDUCATION
2020 MFA, Painting, The New York Studio School, New York, NY
2014 BFA, Visual Art, Southern Methodist University, Dallas, TX
2013 Yale University School of Art, Auvillar, FR (abroad program)
EXHIBITIONS
2019 Trials and Tribulations. New York Studio School, New York, NY
Grounded, The Canvas by Querencia Studio, New York, NY
2018 Fresh Meat, The New York Studio School, New York, NY
2017 The Emergence Exhibition, Shaw Contract, New York, NY
Inkerman, New York, NY
Art in Bloom, New Orleans Museum of Art, New Orleans, LA
2016 Art in Bloom, New Orleans Museum of Art, New Orleans, LA
2015 Art in Bloom, New Orleans Museum of Art, New Orleans, LA
Paris Parker, New Orleans, LA
2014 Jackson Pollock Gallery, Dallas, TX
Doolin Gallery, Dallas, TX
Whitestone Reit, Dallas, TX
2013 Octavia Art Gallery, New Orleans Museum of Art, New Orleans, LA
Doolin Gallery, Dallas, TX
Green Gallery, New Haven, CT
2012 Doolin Gallery, Dallas, TX
2010 Ogden Museum of Art, New Orleans, LA
AWARDS/HONORS
2014 Steven Wilder Travel Award, Meadows School of Art, Dallas, TX
2013 Fellow of Robert Reed's Yale Studio Art Course, Auvillar, FR
2010 Loyola Outstanding Art Award, Loyola University, New Orleans, LA
PRESS