While Sean Diediker’s upcoming solo show is in line with the artist’s style of combining a traditional approach with an impressionistic application, he has implemented a new approach that leaves more up to chance. The aptly titled show, New Directions,featuring dream-like landscapes and figurative scenes, marks a shift for the artist as he overhauls his process and techniques for larger format paintings.
Alpine Reflection, oil on canvas, 36 x 48 in.
“The overall theme of the show, in a way, is about scale, not just physical, but internal—testing the boundaries of what a familiar process can become when pushed in a new direction,” Diediker explains. “One of the most important elements in this new body of work is the role of chance—specifically in the underpainting stage. I’ve deliberately let go of many academic conventions during this phase, allowing the process to unfold with a kind of intuitive chaos. The only formal principle I consciously hold onto is color harmony. Beyond that, the early layers are turbulent, expressive and often unpredictable.”
Flower Child #1, oil on canvas, 48 x 36 in.
Diediker’s “new direction,” in a nutshell, is about relinquishing control and trusting the process. “Letting chance lead the way has opened up a space for decisions that feel more alive, more responsive and ultimately more honest,” he says.
These shifts began with Diediker working on significantly larger pieces—larger than anything he’s done before. “Change required me to rethink everything, from the initial underpainting to the tools I use, all while trying to preserve the intimate qualities I love about my smaller and mid-sized works,” the artist adds.
Noteworthy highlights in the show include Sanctum,featuring male and female figures in an intimate embrace. “My intention was to give shape to that sacred space between two souls—the quiet hum of shared energy where words fall away and presence becomes everything; evoking that soft surrender and absolute contentment that shields us from the turbulence of the world.”
Diamond Fork Backcountry, oil on canvas, 48 x 48 in.
Diediker is also known for his landscapes, and they are represented by works like Diamond Fork Backcountry, a picture of the artist’s favorite place. “It’s only minutes from my studio [in Utah], but feels like a world away when I need it most,” he shares. “She has so many hidden corners that amplify Utah’s already majestic landscape. It’s virtually impossible not to be inspired.”
The artist continues, “When you consistently frequent a particular spot, you can’t help but notice its ever-changing evolution. I believe there’s a lesson in that. While the foundations of her skeletal peaks and rolling hills remain, time and season paint vastly different, yet equally beautiful, canvases. I think that principle can be applied in the studio. We can have a consistent foundation in our artistic workflow, but we should never underestimate the importance of chance and change.”
Sanctum, oil on canvas, 60 x 48 in.
Visit Blue Rain Gallery in Santa Fe, New Mexico, from August 29 through September 12, to witness the full breadth of Diediker’s new series. An artist reception will be held on Friday, August 29 from 5 to 7 p.m. —
Blue Rain Gallery 544 S. Guadalupe Street • Santa Fe, NM 87501 • (505) 954-9902 • www.blueraingallery.com
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