Artist's Statement

Over twenty years dedicated to making and teaching art, Karl Stephan has worked in obscurity. Individual and group shows, awards, notable teaching engagements, a Master’s degree and two well-regarded curatorial efforts earned him a small but enthusiastic following. But when gallery director Susan Berstler saw a photos of Karl’s pandemic work, she reached out to offer a Nave Gallery show.

This retrospective exhibit presents twenty years of Karl’s artistic progress since resuming artmaking in late 2001. For Karl every dark event from 9/11 to Katrina, Trump to Covid and Ukraine has prompted a renewed pursuit of light. From “suburban surrealism” to new expansive “color music” Karl persists in seeking joy.

A "pocket edition" of KS×20 will be presented through April 2022 at the Fessenden School in Newton Massachusetts, in conjunction with Karl’s visiting artist engagement.

Curatorial assistance for both exhibits is provided by Kylie Terra Burnham, Masters Candidate, Museum Education, Tufts University.

Preview work at: www.karlstephanstudio.com and www.instagram.com/karlstephanstudio

Closing reception: Sunday May 1st.