Artist Spotlight: P. Dunne
Artist P. Dunne is a Chicago area native, raised in Wisconsin & Georgia who attended college in Texas as an illustration major, and currently resides in Chicago.
In describing a preferred medium to work in, P. Dunne lists, "mainly ballpoint pen, sometimes adding ink, whiteout, and/or highlighter, on envelopes (or) chipboard (the dark ones on chipboard obviously). Just general office supplies to create them, rather than the expected, traditional "art" supplies."
P. Dunne's artwork reflects the darker side of life, hidden by night, or secrets. Each drawing tells a story, often in layers that are revealed as the viewer invests in each piece. Even after reflection, a question may remain as to what has just happened in this scene, or what is about to occur? The intelligence and depth of these drawings captures the viewer';s attention and holds it.
When asked who has influenced P. Dunne, the following are named: "old movies, old Hollywood, the artists Vargas, Erte, Gorey, Lautrec, Daumier, Olivia, Albright; and the photographers C.S. Bull, George Hurrell."
P. Dunne's work has been shown in Chicago, Houston, and Dallas. Pieces have been published in newspapers, magazines, and comic anthologies. The artist has done various and sundry pieces for family and friends (announcements, business cards, invitations, posters, promos) as well as professionally.
Why do them? "They're a habit, and they give my hands something to do. I've always drawn when given a spare minute (and) a pen. Sometimes the work reveals truths I wasn't expecting. Sometimes I do it just to amuse or shock or kid; sometimes to just explore and enjoy odd or unsettling beauty, however that is defined."
