Artists Statement

By Mark Pflughoeft

I once told a first grade art class that if they were quiet and still they would hear ‘the voices’ tell them which color would go in which shapes on their abstract designs. One by one their eyes grew wide and they leaped into action. Others looked at me astonished and called out, “I heard the voices Mr. Pflughoeft!”

My own painting has gone much like this for the past 40 years. I sit quietly and wait for ‘the voices’. They tell me which color, line or shape goes where. They tell me which texture might work on certain forms. They tell me when to be strong and striking, and when to soften the look. They tell me when I’m finished with a painting and even what my next series will entail. Am I channeling paintings? I don’t think so. If anything, I’m just listening for the voice of the painter deep within me. This voice tells me who I am now as an artist. It keeps me current on what excites me visually and what challenges me artistically and philosophically.

Art making doesn’t feel like an intellectual activity for me, though it is emotional and spiritual. I spend endless amounts of time focused on each piece. I leave them lay around my house and studio so that I can sit with them. The time is actually spent looking, listening and simply being aware, alert, open and present. After spending this time I just ‘understand’ what must be done next. Making art is more an intuitive or mystical activity for me, and I think this is true for a lot of artists.

To contact Mark about questions, pricing
or personally commissioned art works
Call 1-608-838-9825 
Email pflugy@charter.net