“Kaleidoscope”, showcases Robert Klunk’s vast talent and will give viewers the opportunity to discover the beauty of his rare work, Klunk’s new technique, drawing and watercolor. Inspired by life and nature, Klunk’s world of make believe is exceedingly detailed from his conceptual sketches and handmade paper to the final matting and salvaged framing.
Ellen Williams, of the Adler Center staff sat down with Klunk to discuss his love of art and where he gets his inspiration. Read the interview:
Williams: When did you first know that you wanted to pursue art?
Klunk: I remember always drawing as a kid and having my own take on something traditional. My father was a gardener and made model ships, so he had his own artistic tendencies, he was more of a craftsmen. I guess I've always known.
Williams: What is your favored medium?
Klunk: Drawing, etching, and watercolor.
Williams: What is that process like?
Klunk: Each process leads to the other. I start with an idea and what I'm interested in drawing, then I do research and discover images that inspire me, images from life, imagery, and I let it percolate in my psyche for a while until I feel inspired to put the pen down and draw. I try to put my own spin on everything that I do with stylized visions with colors and designs.
I do the drawing first, then move to etching.
My new style and what was inspiration for this show is my new imagery I like to call Kaleidoscopes. It's like looking through the glass and creating images that are symmetrical but not exact.
Williams: How do you choose pieces and a theme for your shows?
Klunk: I always find a theme. I really like to take people through my creative process and give them a look at how I've created the imagery.
Williams: When you start a piece do you have a general idea of what the outcome will be? Or do you find out as the piece comes together?
Klunk: It changes while I'm working. I have a basic idea when I start the piece. I outline the story/premise, do the research. I find it very similar to writing a novel. I like to use paper and rag paper, and I love the layering effects of watercolor. The colors build, enhancing the story yet the effects are so subtle.
Williams: What are your favorite subjects?
Klunk: I work from nature and am very influenced by life in general. I try to absorb visual excitement that I see and then I try to create imagery from that. Make believe, birds, butterflies, fish, creatures, people, part fish part bird, flying through space, make believe situations, fantastical situations, emotion. I'm an incurable romantic and I think my work reflects that.
You can see Klunk's show "Kaleidoscope" at the David Adler Music and Arts Center from December 5-21. The opening reception is Thursday Dec. 5 from 7-9pm at the Adler Center at 1700 N. Milwaukee Ave. in Libertyville. Call 847-367-0707 for more information or visit www.adlercenter.org
