‘Reflections on 17th Street’ et al

by John Attanasio

‘Reflections on 17th Street’

‘Train Shed c. 1900’

My painting goal is to capture beauty and light based on my observations of people, places and things. As I paint, I often find myself re-living a moment in time or a feeling about the subject. In addition to painting from direct observation, I often develop my paintings by composing and photographing a scene, a person or a site for later use as a reference. My paintings are representational, but my style is flexible: it varies from realist to impressionistic depending on subject matter and mood. The subjects of my paintings usually reflect an interest in specific people, places or things. In Philadelphia (where I have lived for many years), I am drawn especially to the Schuylkill River, with its many bridges, and to the city's historic, quaint and authentic neighborhoods and structures. In Downeast Maine (where I also have a home and studio, I am constantly inspired by the ever-varying sunsets, by the rocky coastline and by the astounding views of ocean and bay.