Paul Kuntze: Bridging Baroque and Abstract Expressionism

I’ve been following Paul Kuntze’s work on Instagram for quite some time. Recently, I had the chance to catch up with him. During a brief call, we chatted about his work, which is a unique blend of abstract expressionism and classical baroque influences.

Paul began his work about five years ago. He experimented with various techniques and styles before finding his niche in combining inspirations from baroque frescoes and abstract expressionism.

To understand Paul's work, it's important to know the history of baroque frescoes. The baroque period, from the late 16th to early 18th century, was known for storytelling through dramatic and incredibly detailed works of art. Frescoes were a key part of baroque art. These large-scale ceiling and wall paintings were done on fresh lime plaster, which allowed for color vibrancy and durability.

Paul is inspired by the opulence and complexity of these historical frescoes. He is particularly drawn to ceiling paintings in old churches across Europe, where the intricate details and expansive compositions create a sense of awe. The blend of this classical inspiration with the spontaneity and boldness of abstract expressionism is characteristic of Paul’s work.

His process involves layering techniques to achieve the background, clearly inspired by frescoes. He builds it by applying multiple layers of thin acrylic paint, then adds the superficial textured layers to symbolize the human elements of his inspiration. This method creates a rich, tactile quality in his paintings.

Paul aims to bring historical elements into the contemporary art world. He doesn't try to replicate the religious themes of baroque frescoes but reinterprets their aesthetic and emotional impact in a contemporary context.

His commitment to blending these styles is evident in his meticulous process. His use of various mediums, including spray cans and custom-mixed acrylic paints, adds to the uniqueness of his work.

Conclusion

Paul Kuntze's work shows the enduring influence of historical art movements and the possibilities of contemporary expression. By merging the details of the baroque period with the freedom of abstract expressionism, he creates works with incredible aesthetic appeal. His paintings invite viewers to appreciate both the beauty of his compositions and the rich conceptual layers that define his artistic process.