Kris Rehring is a figurative painter. She earned a BS from the University of Miami, Coral Gables and an MFA in Graphic Design from the University of Tennessee. She also attended the Jerusalem Studio School Summer Art School and Residency’s Master Class program in Civita Castellana, Italy. Kris has exhibited work nationally and is the recipient of several awards including grant funding and is a member of the National Association of Women Artists. She has taught at the University of Tennessee’s School of Art and Architecture. Currently she maintains a full-time studio practice out of a group studio she formed called Studio 2515 in Knoxville, Tennessee. To find out more about Kris Rehring, visit www.krisrehring.com.
Statement
With the sudden shift in routine brought on by the pandemic, I took the time to reflect on why and how I paint. During my college years, art history and the practice of making art were typically treated as separate entities. An unexpected positive to this year has been the time afforded to bridge the gap between those two disciplines and to incorporate that knowledge into my current studio practice. Referencing work by the masters or contemporary artists keeps the dialog of painting ongoing and relevant. The spark of inspiration may come from a simple color combination or compositional arrangement. It is an exciting approach and as such pays respect to those who have come before.
I was born in Chattanooga, Tennessee and raised in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Drawing and painting were natural outlets. A pivotal shift occurred when I attended a class in figure drawing at the University of Miami. After graduation I began a career in graphic design, keeping fine art pursuits on the side. Eventually I returned to East Tennessee and earned a MFA from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, where I now call home. I have been a full-time painter now for over eight years. In addition to the human figure, my work includes urbanscapes and still lifes.
Influences are many including artists such as Zoey Frank, Tom Root, Edward Hopper, Charles Sheeler and countless masters.
All images and text are copyrighted by Kris Rehring.
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