The Genesis of an Artistic Journey
Tanner Valant’s artistic journey began amidst the global upheaval of the pandemic, turning a period of uncertainty into a canvas of opportunity. Initially, art served as a therapeutic escape, transforming a casual interest into a fervent daily practice. Social media platforms became his virtual studio, allowing him to share his evolving creations and receive constructive feedback from a diverse audience. This interactive environment played a crucial role in refining his techniques, leading to the development of a unique style characterized by a blend of hyper-realism and surreal elements. Valant’s work explores themes of balance and duality, using contrasting imagery to provoke thought and challenge perceptions.
Valant’s distinctive approach involves pairing unexpected images to create visual dialogues about our interactions with the world. His compositions often feature surprising combinations, such as fish navigating around M.C. Escher-like reflective spheres or hands dripping with paint delicately holding bonsais. These elements are not just visually striking but are imbued with deeper meanings. The reflective spheres and dripping hands, for example, symbolize the complexity and fluidity of human emotions and identities. Meanwhile, bonsais and classical busts juxtapose the delicate beauty of nature and history against the relentless march of modernity and technological progress.
At just 19 years old, Valant is already making significant strides in the art world. His educational experiences at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago have been transformative, providing him with a nurturing environment filled with talented peers and mentors. This exposure to a variety of artistic styles and techniques has broadened his perspective, enabling him to experiment boldly with his ideas. The institute has also offered invaluable resources and platforms to showcase his work, helping him gain recognition and build a solid foundation for his burgeoning career.
Tanner Valant: Crafting Surreal Realities
Valant’s creative process is a meticulous journey from concept to completion, reflecting his dedication to achieving hyper-realistic and surreal effects. Each piece begins with a conceptual seed, often inspired by themes of balance and duality. He spends considerable time sketching and planning the composition, meticulously thinking about how different elements can be harmoniously integrated to convey his intended message. This phase is crucial for ensuring that each element serves a specific purpose within the overall narrative.
Once the conceptual groundwork is laid, Valant embarks on the intricate process of creation. His toolkit is diverse, including color pencils for fine lines and textures, detail pens for precision, airbrushes for smooth gradients and backgrounds, and markers for bold colors and contrasts. Each tool plays a vital role in bringing his visions to life, allowing him to achieve the hyper-realistic and surreal effects that define his work. The creation process is time-consuming, but the end result—a piece that encapsulates his artistic vision—is immensely rewarding.
Valant’s 2023 solo exhibition, “Duality,” at Abend Gallery, is a testament to his exploration of these themes. The exhibition featured a collection of works that delve into the complexities of human nature and our interactions with the world. Standout pieces included “Drippy Hands,” which depicts hands seemingly melting with paint while holding delicate flowers, and a series of reflective spheres that evoke a sense of infinite introspection. Each artwork invites viewers to ponder the balance and duality in their own lives, encouraging a deeper reflection on their personal experiences and perspectives.
Inspirations and Influences
Valant’s artistic journey has been significantly influenced by the hyperrealist artist CJ Hendry. Her ability to create lifelike images with simple tools like pencils and pens has had a profound impact on his approach to art. Hendry’s meticulous attention to detail and her willingness to push the boundaries of hyper-realism serve as a constant source of inspiration for Valant. Her success has motivated him to refine his skills continually and to explore new concepts while remaining true to his distinctive style.
In his own work, Valant aims to challenge himself with each new piece, striving to create art that is both visually stunning and thought-provoking. This dedication to his craft is evident in the way he translates abstract concepts like identity and duality into tangible visual narratives. He begins by contemplating the emotions and experiences that define human nature—love, mystery, care, and darkness. These themes are then represented through contrasting elements in his artwork, creating a visual dialogue that resonates on a personal level.
For instance, the monochrome reflective hands in his pieces symbolize the multifaceted nature of human personalities and the fluidity of emotions. Abstract shapes and figures further illustrate the complexity of human interactions and the delicate balance we strive to maintain in our lives. By weaving these elements into cohesive compositions, Valant crafts a visual language that speaks to the universal human experience, inviting viewers to explore their own identities and dualities.
Tanner Valant: Nature’s Influence on Artistic Expression
Growing up in Colorado Springs, Valant was surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of nature, which profoundly influenced his artistic vision. The serene landscapes and harmonious environment provided a constant source of inspiration, instilling a deep appreciation for the natural world. This connection to nature is evident in his work, where he often incorporates elements such as flowers, plants, and animals to highlight the interplay between humanity and the environment.
Valant’s art emphasizes the delicate balance between the natural and the man-made, drawing attention to the impact of human activity on the world around us. By juxtaposing natural elements with abstract or technological components, he creates a visual commentary on the necessity of preserving the beauty and harmony of nature amidst societal and technological advancements. This theme is particularly relevant in today’s rapidly changing world, serving as a poignant reminder of our responsibility to protect and cherish the natural environment.
Ultimately, Valant hopes that viewers of his work leave with a sense of unity and harmony. He aims to inspire conversations about balance, duality, and the complexity of human nature, encouraging viewers to reflect on their own interactions with the world. Through his art, Valant seeks to highlight the beauty in both the positive and negative aspects of life, urging us to embrace our own dualities and strive for a more harmonious existence with the world around us.
