Sparks Fly in New Park West Gallery Video Featuring Chris DeRubeis
SOUTHFIELD, Mich., March 28, 2017 – Flying sparks, dancing flames and chemical cocktails – these are the elements artist Chris DeRubeis combines to create Abstract Sensualism®.
In Park West Gallery’s newest video, the California-based artist demonstrates his unconventional techniques for creating mesmerizing metal art. While most artists require paintbrushes and canvases in the studio, DeRubeis equips himself with a gas mask, a protective suit and welding goggles.
“I think I took it to the next level of creating something straight out of my head and experimenting with things that people normally don’t do or use to create art,” DeRubeis says.
DeRubeis uses aspects of sculpture and painting to form a unique style he calls Abstract Sensualism. The name derives from the style’s organic, sleek lines and aesthetics.
“All art should inspire and evoke emotion. Art should be something you can actually feel,” DeRubeis says.
Each time DeRubeis creates a work of art, the combination of chemical reactions, surface grinds and fire result in unique patterns. This means no two DeRubeis works are the same, even if they share the same title.
“I use different abrasive power tools for different grinding actions for the backgrounds, and then I use a mixture of mixed media — chemicals and paints — to apply to the piece,” DeRubeis says.
Mini Burst series by Chris DeRubeis.
Abstract Sensualism began when a 20-year-old DeRubeis took a grinder to a motorcycle’s gas tank to remove the paint. The way the newly-exposed metal patterns reflected light ignited a spark in DeRubeis’ mind. He experimented with chemicals, power tools and extreme temperatures to see what other reactions he could achieve.
DeRubeis first fell in love with creating art at age 3. When he was 13, his grandfather bought him his first airbrush. DeRubeis used his airbrushing skills to earn money while attending the Pasadena Art Center in Sherman Oaks, California.
Today, DeRubeis’ art is collected around the world and featured on over 100 cruise ships with Park West Gallery.
About Park West Gallery
Founded in 1969, Park West Gallery has connected artists to more than 2 million fine art collectors through art auctions on over 100 cruise ships and via a public art gallery in Michigan. Park West Gallery creates an entertaining, educational and welcoming environment that ignites a passion for the arts and offers an incomparable collecting experience.
