About
Born in 1979, Danny Frownfelter joined the Arts of Life in 2011. Since joining the studio, he has built a portfolio of bold, dramatic portraits.
Inspired by pop culture, celebrity faces take center stage in Frownfelter’s artwork. His flair for the theatrical is evident through contrast, bold brushstrokes and the blank, staring eyes of his subjects.
“His eyes are black blue eyes. I make white and dark like tombstones. It’s like red and black on it. White and dark shadows. This is values.”
Figures are offset against a dark background, with large faces and simple forms to represent eyes and mouths. Color contrast defines loosely formed shapes with rough edges. Frownfelter’s brush strokes and pencil marks are frequently visible in the finished piece, lending clues about the rapidity and enthusiasm with which he works
“Lots of people love my art. People look at my paint. Make me happy. Your art [is] supposed to make you happy. My life.”
Frownfelter is also a singer for the studio band, Van Go Go.
Selected Exhibits
A is for Artist
The Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art, Chicago, IL - 2017
Permanent Collection
The Waisman Foundation, Madison, WI - 2017
I Challenge You
Glenview Public Library, Glenview, IL - 2017
