Stephane Joannes: Passage

For as long as he can remember, Joannes has been enamored by tankers.  His large, oil on canvas paintings depict massive, hulking sea vessels that have fallen subject to time and age, their hulls showing a lifetime of labor.  The artist finds sentiment in these vessels; it is beautiful that something so large and seemingly indestructible should reveal signs of fragility.

Joannes’ paintings are still and serene, allowing the viewer to focus on the rich textures within the work. The maritime theme, often thought of as a traditional one, is made contemporary by Joannes’ clean lines, bold delineations of space, and hints of abstraction. The sky, depicted through a candy-coated slick solid color, establishes the atmosphere for the painting. The water, created as a result of the primed canvas laid bare, is accented with minimal drippings from the vessel above or subtle glazing, suggesting reflections and shadow. The main focal point of the artist’s composition is the ship, richly painted with thick strokes from a palette knife.  These marks stream down the hull of the rusted vessel, creating a rhythm across the work.

Born in 1975 in Besançon, France, Stephane Joannes studied at L’Ecole Superieure des Arts Decoratifs in Strasbourg, France.  This is the artist's second solo exhibition at Massey Klein.

Massey Klein Gallery is located at 124 Forsyth St. New York, NY 10002. 

For press inquiries or questions about works available, please contact info@masseyklein.com or call +1.917.261.4657.