Staphan Sarkissian
Staphan Sarkissian

Staphan is fascinated by how the real and abstract interact, for instance the way in which something familiar and tangible can be affected by the subliminal or unknown. This reflects his belief that there is a fictional, narrative like current, that runs parallel to our everyday lives that influences our experience of the world but remain essentially invisible and unknown to those around us. Staphan's work is an attempt to expose this dynamic interplay that shapes our experience of the world. 
Staphan is a very physical painter. He loves acrylic paint and not only because it’s cheap and dries quickly. There is something about the plasticity that suits his work well. Staphan uses squeegees, boards, his hands and whatever is nearby. For Staphan, painting is essentially something that is constructive, like creating a sculpture or a building. The success lies in the right degree of tension between the real, painted in a controlled and somewhat mannered way, and the abstract, which is a great deal more physical. When he strikes the right balance the real makes the paintings accessible and engaging for the viewer, while the abstract challenges them, providing the drama and interest. 

Qualifications and training

• 1986/89  St Martins School of Art, London (first painting)
• 1985/86 Hertfordshire School of Art and Design (foundation course)

Employment

Solo exhibitions

Group exhibitions

Residencies

Private commissions

Public commissions