The Artwork of Carson Teal

Carson Teal is an artist that I have a lot of respect for. A natural artist and also a skilled musician, he excels in drawing, painting, and printmaking.  He is originally from London, Ontario, but has recently relocated to Toronto to study drawing and painting at OCAD University.

I was fortunate enough to share a studio space with him and experience his art. His work looks to be inspired by street art as well as abstract expressionism. He uses a technique of interweaving black lines over a colourful, vibrant background for his paintings and often depicts portraits of elderly men. The paintings have a very organic feel to them due to his incorporated line-work and drips.  It often reminds me of muscle tissue or of some sort of unreal plant that has begun to grow over the surface of the painting. 

I have included some of my favorite works that he produced in the last year.

A good example of how a purely abstract work can look like many things at once. I see letters all over the place in it and at the same time it makes me think of a live organ that is beating.

A personal favorite of mine that he also did as a series of prints. Carson, if you are reading this, I really want one of those prints.

This octagon shaped canvas turned out well. One of his best works in my opinion. A strong composition that brings a still life to mind.

One of the best things about this painting is that it works in all 8 directions it can be rotated. The angle it is at above is my favorite.

So many things I like about this piece. Everything from the subject matter to the oddly shaped surface it was painted on.

I can't wait to see what he creates in the years to come.