My work as an oil painter is exclusively created from direct observation and includes still life, landscape and figural depictions. I tend to avoid the picturesque subjects and instead recognize the complexity and beauty offered by the more ordinary views that often live in our periphery. I like to focus on the way in which these views break down into exclusive color and value shapes. As I work through the painting process, my eye starts to recognize the more subtle shifts in light and color that exist within the larger spaces and allows me to become more definitive in my mark making. I typically try not to think about what the actual objects are within my painting, instead recognizing them as collection of abstract shapes, angles, colors and edges that when applied honestly, will render the image and its likeness. Painting in this perceptual manner is what interests me most about the painting process and keeps me humble as I continue to learn and explore with each new work.
Frederick Fochtman is an award winning representational oil painter, art restorer and painting instructor working in Columbus, Ohio. Fred graduated in marketing from The Ohio State University and spent several years engaged in a successful business career. He came to art and painting as his life’s work a little later in life and started serious study while attending the Columbus College of Art & Design as a working student in evening classes. Fred considers himself an observational painter, focusing his efforts on creating paintings from life regardless of the subject matter. In addition to creating paintings and drawings, he spends his days restoring oil paintings and objects of art. He also teaches painting workshops both in and outside of Ohio and is an occasional instructor at local arts organizations.