Migration #1 by Stanwyck Cromwell

Migration #1 by Stanwyck Cromwell, 2017, Mixed Media: Collage on Masonite Board, 24 x 24 inches (framed)

“This artwork was birthed from bits and pieces of used objects laying around my studio. The intent of this particular piece is to shed light on the ongoing financial, economical, social struggles and challenges that migrant artists face daily in America while pursuing careers in the visual arts. My recycled paint caps, brushes, and other materials bear witness to this struggle. The fish-like images in my work are used metaphorically and represent the oceans from which we crossed over. The vibrancy of my colors represent my spirit.”

Stanwyck E. Cromwell is a Guyanese-born, second-generation visual artist and retired adjunct professor of art from Capital Community College, in Hartford CT. Cromwell has spent much of his adult life in the United States and currently resides in Bloomfield, Connecticut. Stanwyck uses a rich colorful palette that is reminiscent of his cultural identity and memories of his home, Guyana, which are rich and abundant. The mixtures of cultures in American society have played a very important role in his ability to create art that speaks to not only to the eyes, but to the soul. Cromwell is always exploring new artistic horizons in search of knowledge and innovation. He is comfortable with almost any medium. He frequently fuses paintings of his drawings and drawings of his paintings; this practice allows him to direct his creative energy in various directions, as opposed to focusing on one particular piece of art. In doing so, he has devised ways and a means of manipulating certain mediums based on their applications and drying time.