Colin Thomas Darke

Grosse Pointe Farms MI

Snow Storm
Painting
Artist Statement
Colin’s latest work focuses on blending abstract cityscapes with renderings of realistic hummingbirds. This work is for a series of paintings titled “Hope against odds,” where he explores his relationship (and optimism) for Detroit, Michigan. For this series, Mr. Darke has left his traditional medium of watercolor paints to use the more opaque gouache and acrylic paints. Overall, Colin’s artwork focuses on strong contrasts to invoke immediate emotional responses while compelling viewers to consider his work more closely. He initially employs bold colors and abstract imagery to invoke certain visceral reactions to his pieces. Mr. Darke then renders more intricate details that provide an additional subtext to his pieces and allows a viewer a calming area to rest his or her eyes and contemplate the piece. The Detroit News described Colin’s watercolor paintings as employing “a bold, colorful style reminiscent of the German Expressionists.”
Past DAM Shows/Exhibitions
2011 Small(er) Show