Art Page

Wesley Kimler reports that when he does use imagery, it’s usually rather banal and plasticky, which he tries to transform through the act of painting something concrete and interesting. Welsey finds it isn’t what you paint but how you paint it that matters. He’s interested in a big style and painting large —painting big, dumbed-down, happy, clunky images with a romantic exuberance and without any angst or cynicism at all.

Wesley lived and worked in Afghanistan, one of his favorite places on earth when he was young— what he calls his real college campus. The Afghan Kite Collages, which reference the fighting kites the Afghani people fly, were made in part due to his history and also partially attributed to someone who is very close and involved with human rights work in Afghanistan. The vivid colors and dynamic movement of the kites captured his imagination and heart, and he aims to convey that same sense of joy and energy in his paintings. 

Through his work, Wesley strives to bring to life the spirit of the Afghan kite fighters, their bravery, and the vibrant culture that surrounds this ancient tradition. His paintings are a tribute to the beauty and resilience of the Afghan people, reflecting the exuberance and romance he experienced during his time there.