John Koch (August 18, 1909, Toledo – April 19, 1978, New York), American painter, an important figure in 20th century realist painting. He is best known for his portraits, nudes, and paintings of genteel urban interiors, often set in his own light-filled Manhattan apartment.
Almost all of his work is quiet and cool, full of suppressed story and emotion. The eroticism of the nudes seems more of longing than of carnal celebration. And to my mind, anyway, there's a veiled but persistent sadness running through his work.
These are wonderful. Thank you for introducing me to this artist. I'll think I'll do a little research.
ReplyDeleteIf it is possible for a painter's work to be elegant and unsettling at the same time, then John Koch's name must head the list.
ReplyDeleteAnd I agree, totally, about the suppressed carnality. The first image was known to me, the others less familiar, so this posting was a genuine treat. Those moody Conversation Pieces, so very much at odds with the period in which JK was working, are positively haunting. Then there is the sheer technical brilliance of his technique. I could go on and on.
His work (or books/monographs about it) is rather under-exposed, or am I wrong about that?
I think you are not wrong about his relative exposure; I had certainly never heard of him until, a while back, I tripped over one of his paintings on-line and then commenced a search for more.
DeleteUntil today, totally unfamiliar with Mr. Koch but I love the work I've been here, Thanks for exposing me.
ReplyDeleteSo absolutely gorgeous and the narrative is very compelling for me - the hinted suggestion of what is going on - but what a master of light and detail. This is what makes the pieces so engaging. His choice of moment is really wonderful. Cleaning the chandelier, removing the green sock and the artist turning to watch, talk, listen to son are so moving - they all are! So happy to see this nice selection of an artist I never knew. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteYou're welcome, Lisa! I was very happy to happen upon his work, too. : )
DeleteHe was a master story teller - his images create all sorts of intriguing narratives
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