Patrick Wilkins

Painting’s Title: Good Boy Says a Bad Word

Year: 2018

Materials Used: Oil, Acrylic, Enamel, Felt, and Paper on Muslin

Art Verge

How would you define your work in a few words (ideally in 3 words)?

Anxious, Exuberant, Melancholic

 Patrick Wilkins

Three more words to describe ‘Good boy says a bad word’:

Out of Body

Is there any story behind this painting? How did you come up with this painting idea?

This painting is about putting your foot in your mouth. Mine tends to shoot itself off with regularity. I’m no stranger to regretting something I’ve said. I just hope people can forgive and forget easier than I think they can.

What colour is used the most in this painting?

Blue, but the black stands out more.

 What would be the best way to exhibit your painting?

Pop this bad boy on a blue wall with a white grid on it and let it blend in.

Can you mention any artists you, lately or generally, take inspiration from?

Trenton Doyle Hancock, Andre Butzer, David Leggett.

How do you know when this drawing/painting/artwork was finished?

When it doesn’t need anything else and I still enjoy it, it’s done.

What about the place where you work? What’s your studio space look like?

It’s generally a mess. I have a large able that I cover with a large piece of paper or cotton to sketch on and test things out. It accumulates all of my messes and spills and contains notes. Those drawings are  probably some of the most honest things I make. Everything else starts as quick drawings on scrap paper. Parts of the table get left blank completely by chance because a pile of stuff have made them home. All of my paintings live in and around my table.

Is there any particular message that you wish your viewers can take from this painting?

With this piece I want people to be more understanding of people’s faults, especially momentary ones. I want people to also be aware of how they affect others as well. We could all use a bit more self awareness as well as thick skin.

 Which was the best comment that you received regarding this work?

There have been a few people who thought that this painting was a gimmick about using blackface to shock. It was a bit disheartening when the painting isn’t about that at all. It just made me realize how little effort people put into getting past their first impression in a piece of art and helped me that not everyone needs to understand.

What does your mum think about your art?

She loves to ask questions about all the little details. She likes it, but I don’t think she initially understands it. Her and dad are both very supportive.

Which exhibition did you visit last?

I saw a friends’ opening at a local gallery: Elaine Rubenoff at Zolla Lieberman in Chicago. It’s a pretty impressive show.

Which are your plans for the near future?

Keep painting and applying to think while paying bills. Nothing terribly exciting.

 Additional Images

Patrick Wilkins Instagram @patrickmartinwilkins

©All images are courtesy of the artist