In Nov. 2013 Alan entered the International Polo Club of Palm Beach 2014 Commemorative Poster Competition. His winning entry entitled 'Polo Rumble' gives a unique impressionistic view of polo. This international recognition has motivated him to add more equestrian works to his portfolio, but continues to paint a variety of subjects.
Painting primarily in slow drying oil paints, Alan has a world of opportunities to experiment with textures, brush strokes, brush smears, zig zag lines, score marks to add a deeper definition.
Movement and insightful cropping have become a trademark of some of his work. Instead of painting the entire scene, he can focus tightly on a key detail or decisive moment to create impact while using a pallet knife and brush strokes, spatters and drips to generate the action. A painting of a single wave, the viewer can almost hear the roar of the ocean. There is a vibration to the paintings that seem to engage the other senses. Alan's work, like musical overtones, rings clear and clean and energizes the soul of the viewer.
Alan devotes all his time to his painting and currently works mostly in oil and sometimes in acrylics, but his technique and style continues to evolve. "I want to be known for my technique and experimental brush work rather than a certain subject matter." He considers himself an impressionist, but is still open to realistic and abstract painting. "Painting should be fun, but not haphazard".
Alan is a graduate of the Art Institute of Pittsburgh. He has worked in the art and advertising profession most of his life and his work has been recognized for excellence in art contests and in the Addy awards. He grew up in Pittsburgh PA, lived in Shreveport LA for many years before moving to South Florida in 1984.
Alan has made several humanitarian trips to third world countries. Twice to Haiti, before and after the earthquake. And a visit to the impoverished areas of Jamaica, and physically helped a team build a house for a destitute family in one day.
Mary Martin Gallery I is located on 103 Broad Street, Charleston, SC 29401 843-723-0303
Mary Martin Gallery IIis located at 143 East Bay Street, Charleston, SC 29401
Mary Martin Galleries have been selected as the best galleries in South Carolina for thirteen years in a row and amd selected as one of the top 20 galleries in the nation, Also, MMG has been selected as the best gallery by several local publications.