2019:  Dedicated to the 3:30 Project

I've made a deliberate choice to seek fewer, but more impactful, exhibit opportunities this year.  I'm devoting my time and energy to the 3:30 Project. For years, the 3:30 Project has been swirling around in my heart and head.  There is a lot of work ahead. 30 volunteers - 4 artworks each.  I have 120 abstract portraits to complete by the end of the calendar year 2019.

The good news:
  • An August 31 - October 6, 2019 solo show at the Southern Vermont Arts Center will be dedicated to The 3:30 Project.
  • I have a tentative offer for a solo show of the completed project in 2020, at the Amy E. Tarrant Gallery at the Flynn Center for Performing Arts.
  • In January, I invested in a new (used) etching press to optimize my art-making time.
  • Supplies and materials are in stock. 
  • My ever-supportive spouse is helping me upgrade my studio.
  • 3:30 Participant Questionnaires are making their way back to me while I create portraits. 

What People are Saying about the Artwork

"These are, quite simply, gorgeous works that evoke edges, borders, and the complexity of visual systems. The refusal of representation is matched by a suggestion of form and figure in each one of the works. Trauma and survival undergird the tensions in each composition. Foreground, background, horizontally and vertically, the muted frenzy of colors, all create a dissonant dialogue that speaks about working through, acknowledging, wrestling with, and moving on without a need to enclose. The lack of enclosure, either in a signifying system, a "style," or a set of historically determined forms, is an act of generosity and liberation." - Vermont College of Fine Arts​​

Links

Materials

Stephanie Kossmann makes original fine art in paint and etching ink on paper, archival panel, or linen. The artist uses professional grade, light-fast mediums, paints, and etching inks from high quality producers. Artworks prepared for exhibit are professionally framed with UV protective, low-glare glass or mounted on archival panel and protected with cold wax medium or varnish. Monotypes are identified with the traditional "1/1" that documents a unique image produced through the printmaking process. All artwork is affixed with the artist’s original signature. ​

Making

The artist judiciously combines etching ink (sticky like hot marshmallow) and paint (greasy like buttery fingers) using brayers, pallet knives, rags, squeegees, and found objects.  The materials allow her to create subtle yet powerful images and to express complex emotional themes.  Her masterfully rendered images are positively disruptive; stirring deep emotions and eliciting physical reactions that are difficult to express through language. Audiences gain a deeper understanding of their personal power.

​The artwork delivers a satisfying personal experience that is nourishing to the soul.  The colorful, atmospheric, abstract portraits and landscapes invite viewers to honor and affirm their life experiences.  Audiences are uplifted and renewed; empowered by a new perspective on their challenges and accomplishments.

Purchasing

The artist recommends that you see the artwork in person before purchasing. Even professional photographers are challenged to capture the sheer layers of color and complexity of the images. Stephanie offers a mature body of high quality artwork. Pricing compensates the artist for her production time, supplies and materials, and a lifetime of skill development. Artwork value is consistent at all sales and exhibit locations. This is a courtesy to the professional galleries that devote significant effort representing the artist and mitigates the possibility of pricing confusion. Values are calculated with an industry acceptable methodology: a formula based on the height and width of the image.

She provides premium customer service – offering local art delivery and the experience of in-home visits so that customers may experience a variety of artwork in their final locations prior to purchase. ​Additional fees may be evaluated at the time of purchase to account for delivery, shipping, and insurance.

It means a great deal to Stephanie to make original fine art accessible to everyone. She offers gem sized original artworks starting under $75 as a wonderful way to add fine art to daily life; add joy to your desk at work or perched on a shelf or windowsill.

Personalized abstract portrait commissions welcome!  Send a note to request prices and contract terms. 

Copyrights

​Buyers purchase a work of art.  The artist retains the copyrights to the artwork and any images thereof.  Collectors may photograph their artwork for insurance or estate planning purposes.  ​Please contact Stephanie to request permission prior to using images for other purposes.