Artist Statement:

The themes of my work are rooted in memories, emotions, and inspiration from paintings that have impacted my artistic journey. All of this I express through compositions built from shapes and colors that come to me through intuition. The process fluctuates between working with urgency followed by long pauses as the ideas percolate and are then tested. As the composition becomes clear, I feel different areas expand and contract to build areas of tension and areas to breathe. Although the works are invented, their connection to my experiences is what creates both a sense of purpose and substance.

Bio:

Joel Fleminger grew up in St. Louis, MO. He attended Knox College in Galesburg IL where he received a Bachelors in Studio Art for painting and photography. After graduation he continued his studies in painting and drawing at the International School of Art in Umbria, Italy before a residency at the Vermont Studio Center. Since 2015 Joel and his family have lived in Portland, OR. His wife, Erika Rier is an interdisciplinary artist and together they have a daughter who is a professional chef. 

Upcoming Events:

Show History:

  • 2025 - CACOPHONY, 2 person show, The Purple Door, Portland, OR

  • 2025 - Funky Town, 3 person show, Sidestreet Arts, Portland, OR

  • 2025 - Solo show, Exquisite Creatures, Portland, OR

  • 2024 - Guest artist, Salem on the Edge, Salem, OR

Education:

  • Residency, Vermont Studio Center, Johnson, VT

  • International School of Art, Umbria, Italy

  • Bachelors of Fine Art, Knox College, Galesburg, IL

Photo by Mario Gallucci