Bio:

John Hannum, also known as J.E. Hannum, stands as a contemporary abstract artist firmly rooted in Tri-Cities, Washington. His artistic expression takes form in the creation of dynamic cubist-style abstract paintings, meticulously crafted through the use of acrylic, oil, pastel, and charcoal. He uses brushes, palette knives, his hands, and many other tools to apply paint to the canvas. Art has been an integral aspect of his life since an early age. In the latter part of the 2000s, Hannum pursued his college education at Washington State University, marking the rekindling of his artistic journey. Hannum's brushstrokes become a medium for articulating the intricate relationship between modern living and the emotions we all feel. His paintings prompt viewers to contemplate the narrative within, as he skillfully orchestrates a visual symphony featuring lines, colors, abstract figures, and elements of realism.

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Statement: 

Painting is a way for me to express my deep emotions on how I view myself and the world around me. We live in a fake reality. The world is a lonely place and technology has made it worse. People are suffering in the shadows of their fake realities. My paintings are an expression of the complexities of living in the modern world. They are you, They are me, its the person you saw that one time and the person you knew. I aim to bring out the beauty in all the chaos. 

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As a painter, I am always focused on experimenting with new ideas. Sometimes a wild idea will pop into my head when I least expect it. I'll write it down and think for days on how I can make it a reality. Recently, I have been experimenting with using new materials and stepping away from the traditional canvas. My artistic expression is derived from the exploration of imperfections as a foundational element. My paintings start out as loose random doodles with little to no meaning or value. My paintings focus on the composition, flow of lines, and the inherent beauty of each piece. I strive to evoke emotions through a unique and distinctive approach. I find inspiration in the chaos of everyday life, cartoons, people, and life experiences. I am also inspired by the artistic works of H.R. Giger, Francis Bacon, Picasso, George Condo, Wassily Kandinsky, Jean-Michel Basquiat, and Jackson Pollock. Ultimately, I empower the viewer to interpret and determine the narrative unfolding within the artwork.

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All of my works are dedicated to my loving wife, my family, and all the great friends who’ve supported me along my journey.

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