The biological art forms of Robert Steven Connett

The artist finds ideas in for his work in various biological forms of diverse biota, micro and macro scale organisms, both terrestrial and aquatic. He uses acrylic paint to portray a dark world teaming with microscopic life. “I use acrylic paint because I like that it dries fast. I mix my paint with acrylic mediums to increase the gloss and translucency,” says the artist.

Connett maintains a standard throughout his final product in each of his work, aiming to leave the art to appear shiny and still moist as it is completed. He sustains the opaqueness and transparency of the painting by adding acrylic polymer mediums, varnish and glazes as he is developing his art. In his work you can find scary invertebrates, reptiles, tropical insects and plants, and even human-like faces, which all contain a warning colouration, reflecting the idea that something bizarre is going on. All of these creatures are recreated in a vibrant living environment.

“I paint things that enchant me, and I paint because I enjoy seeing my imagination come to life.”

Intricately detailed and richly colourful, their futuristic undertones depict disturbing, dreamlike scenarios. Each organism is rendered with excruciating detail, based on studies from his collection of specimens, books of scientific illustrations, and his imagination. Connett believes that each life form is designed to regenerate and evolve and that flora, fauna, and even non-living organisms can have an energy that can be considered as a form of life.

Each and every artist regularly become influenced by other artists that affect the work that they conceive, and Connett himself finds his creative spark by the art genres of New Contemporary, Pop-Surrealism and Fantastic Realism. “These genres have had an influence on my work during the past few decades. However, my style seems to be finding its own way. I’m not sure that my work still fits in with these categories.”

The Californian is continuing to grow and develop as an artist, along with his paintings. His work has provided him with a deeper insight into the world and himself. Each artist finds themselves defined by the work they do behind closed doors, and these are the moments in life that truly navigate a person’s sense of consciousness. “Creating art allows me many hours of silence in which I spend time in self-examination. Many hours spent alone helps me to think clearly. People find my work interesting and thought-provoking.”

“Making art has transformed me into a person who contributes ideas to the world. My artwork justifies my existence,” added Connett. “For me, this is the only area in my life worth exploring.”