Artist Statement
My goal is not to mimic and copy the obvious, but rather to produce art that departs from the familiar. Subject matter largely acts as an inspirational catalyst in my work. Swimmers, railroad cars, trees, and various observed forms orchestrate as a springboard in my art making method. To me it is not merely a question of what to depict, but rather how to reinvent the subject.
Formally, a key facet of my imagery includes a contrast of abstracted elements in relation to more referential forms. I strive to place an individual identity in my work by controlling paint quantity, color, and the abundance or absence of mark. High and low chroma contrast, and a persistent use of less commonly utilized color combinations are often visible in my work.
Yet above all, I enjoy the simple pleasure of taking seemingly ordinary materials and creating viable works. The understructure of why to make art rests in the satisfaction found in the process of simply producing. I feel that art has the ability to act as an escape from the mundane. Additionally, it is inspiring that once one facet of art is understood; a never-ending new platform for exploration is opened.
In conclusion, the classic question by many concerning a life in art is “how will you survive?” Nothing could be further from the truth. I have discovered that with art in my life it is not only easier to survive, but rather to thrive. I believe that nothing is more freeing than working from an easel, pulling a print, or sketching from a masterwork. Art is a way of unearthing meanings, responding to life, and pursuing dreams. In short, art is my passion.
Artist Biography
Hello! Dave Roholt here. I have been teaching art for about 20 years now, Pierce College is home, and I am most grateful to live in the beautiful Pacific Northwest thanks to my amazing artist and educator wife Jenny. My background is in painting and drawing. I started at a community college and earned an Associate of Arts from Salt Lake Community College. Then on to a BFA in drawing and painting from Utah State University, and a wrapped it all up with a MFA in painting from Colorado State University. Aside from art of course-I love hiking, cross-country skiing, and I am an avid fly fisherman and fly tyer, I love all things Japanese and lived in the Northern Japan for two years as a missionary.
