Bill Santelli

Working with fluid acrylics, I build up multiple layers of luminous color to achieve a dynamic interplay between surface, space, color and light. I create an ethereal looking quality to invoke a feeling that you’re “catching a glimpse” of phenomena (spiritual, deep space, weather patterns). Chance and control are equally important as each painting develops. Random chromatic events occur simultaneously, even with my intentional control of the fluid acrylics. My ultimate intent is always to draw the viewer in, that they might experience a moment of quiet reflection in the midst of our fast-paced world.

I never felt like I chose ART – I felt like ART chose me – it’s like a moth attracted to a flame – ART was calling me, always has been, still does. I’ve been an artist my whole life. It’s all I ever wanted to be/do. Along the way, it was necessary to earn money to keep painting, and so began shadow-careers in education and arts-related businesses as support. I was a high school art teacher; archival picture framer; manager of the largest antique print gallery on the west coast; sales person/book buyer for an art supply company; general manager for an archival photographic/picture framing supply company with international catalog and retail stores. I believe those careers were necessary experiences/steps on my path as an artist. I create art to bring beauty and light into our world. My mantra: Express beauty, some serenity, peace. Since 1991, I’ve maintained a full-time studio practice, living and working in the beautiful Finger Lakes region of upstate New York.