Daniel Klewer, a native of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay and was awarded a Master of Arts degree in Visual Studies from Cardinal Stritch University, Glendale, Wisconsin. Klewer is largely recognized for his unconventional painting process, characterized by a shift away from the use of a paintbrush and evidence of brushstrokes. His work often involves applying paint with non-traditional methods and exploring color and texture through various techniques. Daniel’s love of the material properties of paint is evident in his treatment of abstract painted surfaces. He enjoys a meditative, sequential process in which the spontaneity of the material is allowed to influence the direction of the work.

Read on below to learn more about Daniel's work and process.

Q: You describe using a brushless paint application. If not paintbrushes, what are your favorite tools to use when you paint?

A: As I began to veer away from traditional painting methods, I ran into a problem of trying to find tools that would allow me to get the material to behave in the way I was desiring.  I have always been a tinkerer, and over time began developing my own custom processes and tools to enable me to work in new ways. Balancing control and spontaneity is an ongoing pursuit.

Q: What mediums do you use for your paintings? How do you achieve the raised and textured surfaces in your work with a painting medium?

A:  I use various types of painting gels, mediums, and at times add things like sand or sawdust into the paint.  I continually experiment with additives to adjust the surface quality of my paintings.

Q:  Color and surface are really important in your work. How do you determine the color palette of a painting? 

A:  It is not unusual for me to spend at least 1/3 of my time in the studio just mixing colors.  I love mixing paint.  I create sheets of color tests and samples of color combinations to tape to the walls of the studio in preparation for each painting. Many are not used right away but often find their way into future paintings.

Q: Your work bridges the gap between painting and sculpture. What inspires you to keep painting when there are so many mediums and options to choose from?

A: I enjoy working in different art forms.  I have worked on several sculptures this year, but for now, they are just for me.  There is something about starting with the crisp, white canvas and seeing the surface gradually change so dramatically that has kept me fascinated with painting as opposed to other art forms.  I have started building custom irregular-shaped canvases, and that seems to scratch the itch of moving into fully sculptural pieces.

Q: What inspires you as an artist? Aside from other artists, where do you draw inspiration?

A:  One of my biggest sources of inspiration is architecture and interior design.  I enjoy looking at a space and imagining yet-to-be-created pieces for it.  I love the dialogue between art and architecture. I have had the opportunity of doing commissioned pieces and greatly enjoy making works for clients to fit specific curated interiors.