When we first saw Justin Kellner's work, we were drawn to the large-scale canvases, the heavy texture and the composition that incorporates that all-imporant negative space that allows the eye to rest quietly on the canvas. And then, we zeroed in on the diminutive subjects of Kellner's paintings: realistically portrayed birds of all kinds of feathers hiding cleverly in the abstracted brush strokes and paint. We were immediately smitten - and the rest is history. Read on for Justin's own words about his work:"While utilizing the landscape’s natural forms and textures, I draw upon visual cues from past encounters to achieve a balance between realism and abstraction. My intent is to evoke memories and the sense of a place and time while portraying the interrupted cycles existing throughout the natural world’s various ecosystems.The paintings give an impression of the natural areas I've explored, while informing the viewer about their environmental fragility. Very sensitive to their environments, birds are often a good indicator of the health of a particular ecosystem. In my paintings, I combine aggressive, abstract brushstrokes and textures with realistically rendered birds to create spaces that give the impression of erosion, change and isolation. While my work is informed by my research of environmental issues, my primary focus has become the hunt for the birds and their habitats. Searching out and identifying various species has led me to explore Michigan's parks and wetlands. Rather than focusing on the loss of habitat, I've explored the unique environments of individual species, many of which are maintained by conservation efforts. While painting, I also explore. Drawing on memories, natural forms and textures from the environment, I work intuitively, creating abstract suggestions of the landscape that remind me of the places where I've sought out birds and wildlife. My intent is to evoke memories and the sense of a place and time, while portraying the interrupted cycles existing throughout the natural world. Through my work, I hope to inspire others to more deeply explore their local environment and to become invested in the health of its complex ecosystems."