Photography © Aidan Grant

Biography


Liam Minihan (he/him) is a painter based in Ridgewood, Queens. He highlights the rarity of regular geometric forms in nature and as human constructs. He blends traditional painting methods with modern materials, including plastics, stainless steel, and epoxy.


Born in Fremont, Michigan, Minihan moved to New York City in 2012, where he first saw Rothko's "No. 10" at the Museum of Modern Art. Minihan's profound reaction to the painting jumpstarted personal explorations of the novel emotional and physical effects achievable through the interplay of shape, color, and

perception.


In 2019, Minihan established his studio at One Eyed Studios, Ridgewood, Queens, where he presently works.


Artist Statement


As a Formalist artist, my practice revolves around meticulously exploring shape, line, and color. Precision is my paramount, informing every step of my creative process. Beyond aesthetics, I draw inspiration from neuroscientific principles to create visually engaging and intellectually stimulating works.


I am influenced by both historical and contemporary artists. Goethe’s Theory of Color has deeply impacted my work. His insights into color’s emotional and psychological effects guide my use of black, a color that leaves a lasting impression on the retina and creates halos around contrasting figures, a key aspect of my work. Kazimir Malevich, a pioneer in abstract art, has also significantly influenced my work. His bold geometric forms and commitment to the purity of form and color inspire my artistic journey. Additionally, modern artists have profoundly shaped my visual language. Artists like Ellsworth Kelly, Carmen Herrera, Jo Baer, and the Concrete Art Movement in Brazil, all examples of rigorous formalism, inspire me with their innovative use of materials.


Speaking of materials, I blend classical techniques with contemporary elements. Instead of traditional canvas or linen, I work on printable vinyl fabric. This choice of material allows me to experiment with texture and form in unique ways. Meticulously crafted PVC trim board stretcher frames provide the foundation for each piece. The backgrounds are built with multiple layers of paint streaks, resulting in a refined “brushed steel” texture. This serves as a dynamic contrast to the figures in my paintings, which are rendered flat and matte in black or gray.


Through my work, I aim to create a dialogue between the viewer and the intrinsic properties of the materials and forms. By harnessing the scientific and aesthetic principles that influence perception, I strive to construct visually arresting and thought-provoking pieces, inviting viewers to engage with the art on a deeper, more contemplative level.

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