Paul Tambellini

Paul Tambellini creates his art in Silver Spring, Maryland. Always being involved in the creative arts such as music, painting, writing, and drawing, he decided to concentrate on the visual arts. Even though Paul was mostly self-taught, he took lessons and workshops with several local and internationally known artists, which helped to hone his own style. He has been influenced by Hopper and Diebenkorn. Paul’s work has been included in several solo, small group, local, national, and international exhibitions and is also in private and corporate collections.


Artist Statement

I want to explore the effects of light, shadow, and color on the landscape, urban or pastoral, and how they affect the mood and perception of human consciousness. In my paintings, people are often enveloped in a panoramic palette of reflection and light as they are moving into or observing an environment. Color also plays an important part in my process in that all things, whether animate or inanimate, are forever in motion because light and shadow are constantly breaking up into different colors in each different moment. At the same time, I want to show the beauty and awe of the urban or suburban environment by displaying the colors and intricacies of light and shadow.


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Can you describe the core themes and emotions you explore in your current body of work?

I want to convey the excitement and the isolation one can feel at the sight of the vast landscape and sky juxtaposed against the architecture of the buildings and artificial light. This contrast exists whether in daylight or at night.


How does your creative process unfold from concept to completion?

I start with seeing an image or a place that I feel has a connection with me. Then, I create a drawing or a color study to tighten the composition. Once I start painting, I still try to make sure the composition makes sense. I finish the painting when I feel the emotion is apparent and I make certain to not overwork the painting.


What inspires you most outside of the visual arts, and how does it influence your work?

Music inspires me the most outside of the visual arts because I paint while listening to different genres of music depending on my mood. The rhythm of the music influences how I apply my brushstrokes, and the music energizes me to continue and allows me to remain focused.


How do you navigate the balance between personal expression and the commercial aspects of your career?

Even though everyone wants to be popular and sell a great deal, I think one should work to learn their craft and cultivate their own style to propel one’s own success.


What message or feeling do you hope viewers take away from experiencing your art?

I would like to bring a sense of awe and appreciation for the inherent beauty of all things, whether man-made or natural.