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by Stephanie Struyck Elgin
He breathes life into his art and gives it new meaning. For artist Tyler Recchia, the world around him is his inspiration.
A Valencia High School graduate, Tyler recently won the Congressional Art Competition representing the 25th Congressional District. His vibrantly colored award winning oil glaze, Kayla’s Dream, hangs prominently in the Cannon Tunnel Gallery that leads into the U.S. Capitol, and will remain there for a year. Kayla’s Dream depicts a young woman whose face is set on a backdrop of wooden panels. Beautiful images of owls surround her, symbolizing her wisdom.
“His philosophy is interesting,” states figurative artist, art teacher and mother, Janet Recchia. “He takes items considered to be ‘junk’ and repurposes it by giving it new life, by painting new life on it. It’s just amazing.”
Tyler took a moment to talk with us.
é: How did you find out Kayla’s Dream was chosen as this year’s winner for the 2011 Congressional Art Contest?
I found out when I was at the competition. When they called out the number, I thought it was someone else’s number, until I heard my mom scream. I was a bit in shock. There was a lot of competition.
é: You flew out to Washington D.C. for the ceremony. What was that experience like?
It was wonderful. To be able to go to Washington D.C. and be inspired from the architecture and everything around Washington was quite unreal. I couldn’t believe my artwork would be hanging in the Capitol. It’s an amazing feeling.
é: How would you describe Kayla’s Dream?
Kayla’s Dream is one of 12 in a series. She is a modern day Bohemian, who is as wise as an owl. It depicts a young woman who goes through life…she is an independent free spirit who dreams of flying with the owls.
é: When did you begin painting?
I have always enjoyed painting, but I began to take it very seriously the beginning of my sophomore year in high school.
é: You come from a family of artists. How has that influenced your work?
My family has had a great amount of influence in my art. I did, however, follow my own track and have painted on alternative canvases. But I have taken from what they’ve given me and am always inspired by them.
é: Do you work from life? Photographs? Imagination?
Imagination and life. I like to work on the spot from life, and never copy a photo. I do like to take what I see in a photo and completely change it…try to create something that doesn’t exist in reality.
é: What techniques do you use and which is your favorite?
I love all of them. I like quick sketching things in life with a pen. I never like to use pencil. Sometimes I like to use wax things, or anything that acts as a catalyst, but I really do love working with oil, even though it takes a while to dry.
é: What inspires you?
Depends on the situation, every day in life I’m inspired. I always carry my camera and sketchbook. The sights, smells, sounds, everything inspires me-the happy and sad situations, it can be anything.
é: What are your future plans now that you’ve graduated high school?
I want to pursue industrial design including transportation, car design, focusing on transportation and product design. I will be going to the College of Creative Studies in Detroit, Michigan at the end of August.
é: Do you have any advice to give for younger artists?
Take risks. There are no rules in art. While there are techniques, take those techniques and come up with something new. Showcase your originality and how well you can think. Think outside of the box and don’t be afraid of anything. |
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