Born in Texas, Thomas Darnell’s enigmatic canvasses capture the essence of light and atmosphere in a deeply sensitive and introspective manner. Whether realistic or non-representational, Darnell's canvases present an illusion of radiant light through a technique which involves multiple layers of transparent oil paints and alkyde resins. Darnell’s work can be defined by his photorealistic flowers series, his seasonal landscapes which present nature at different times of the day, and his luminous abstract works which recall swirls of smoke or ink dropped into water.
Whether abstract or highly realistic, every canvas displays a profound dreamlike quality and conjures an atmosphere which is meditative and spiritual. The artist cites his influences as the modern painters Gerhard Richter and Ross Beckner, but also draws upon the academicism of old masters such as Caravaggio and Rembrandt. Perhaps as a result of these diverse influences, Darnell's artworks can look paradoxically modern or traditional depending on their environment and the viewer.
Darnell received his painting degree from the University of Texas in Austin where he continued to live and work until 1992 when he relocated to Europe. Darnell currently lives part time in southern France where Matisse and Picasso drew inspiration. He has exhibited in solo and and group exhibitions in Europe, the U.S. and Hong Kong.
