Patrick Van Genderen

BFA Graphic Design; Certificate in Illustration

My practice as an artist is squarely focused upon the improvement of the artistic fundamentals. The reason for this is because beauty is capable of lending messages additional value and communicative strength. While there are many ways to achieve beauty that differ from the traditional fundamentals, I believe that, especially in America, the beauty of the old masters carries strong cultural reverence and respect. There are many progressive messages that desperately need communication in America, and I believe that illustration as a medium has many advantages over photography, film, and other media that can be utilized to make a difference. 

Outside of this, I think people just inherently enjoy good art. The ability to make things other people like is something that I have chased for quite some time, and I am always overjoyed whenever I can tell someone enjoys something that I made. I have dealt with severe depression for many years now, and whenever I’m back on the edge it’s always the idea that I could make just one more thing for someone before I go that ends up keeping me around. 

Thank you for reading.