Painting is difficult enough, but artist Daniel Castan adds the challenge of using quick drying acrylic paints while working from memory. The French painter first began his craft at 40 years old with his initial intentions being to simply have fun. His “fun” exposed a natural artistic talent for recreating cityscapes in an unconventional way.
By adding a resin to his acrylic paints, it speeds up the drying process. As a result, Castan has to work very quickly when constructing his multilayered paintings. There is an engaging textured aesthetic to each of his pieces that depict the urban landscaping of New York City. The uneven, coated surface reflects the gritty city in an intriguing way. Castan’s hastened, abstract technique also aids in representing the hectic, fast-paced lifestyle in New York. His visuals exude liveliness, motion, and lights, which are all attributes of the dynamic city.
