Stephen Cimini

American, b. 1949

Originally from the small town of Williamsport, Pennsylvania, Cimini wrestled with various art forms from wood constructed sculpture to conceptual environments before landing on abstract painting, something he loved from an early age. In 1994, he began developing the vocabulary for his current work, which originates from the linear landscape of Manhattan. It has since mutated to geometric spaces and their relationships to each other while still adhering to its architectural origins. His fascination with the mystery of color is also a vital aspect of his work. Building on the architectural origins, which have been the basis of Cimini’s work for over a decade, he has started referring to his compositions as random symmetry. Creating a balance on the canvas with no discernible pattern allowing a symmetrical, meditative composition to emerge. He employs the golden mean as a reference, which can often be seen in the composition. Using oil paint with a cold wax medium, layering the paint, as organic surfaces evolve within the restrained lines of the composition. Cimini’s color choices vary, sometimes deliberately creating a series with particular color decisions and sometimes allowing the color choices to impulsively appear fueled by intuition and experience. Color remains a constantly unfolding mystery.

2 artworks in Carter Burden Gallery