Lucien Smith is an American artist whose innovative approach to art-making has positioned him as one of the most talked-about figures in the contemporary art world. Born in 1989 in Los Angeles, California, Smith grew up in an environment that was far removed from the art circles he would later join. Despite this, his creative talents and unique vision would eventually lead him to become a notable name in the art scene, with Forbes featuring him twice in its "30 under 30" list in the category "Art & Style" in 2013 and 2014. The New York Times has also referred to him as the "art world Wunderkind," a testament to his early and impactful contributions to the field. Smith's journey into the world of art began with his education at The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in 2011. It was during his time at Cooper Union that Smith began to develop his signature style, which would quickly garner the attention of the art community. His senior thesis show was a pivotal moment in his career, as it caught the eye of Jeanne Greenberg Rohatyn, an influential art scion who runs Salon 94. Recognizing his potential, she purchased one of his paintings, effectively launching his professional career while he was still a student. Smith's work is characterized by its experimental nature and his use of unconventional materials and techniques. He gained widespread recognition for his "Rain Paintings," a series created using paint-filled fire extinguishers. This method allowed him to explore the effects of chance and control in the process of art-making, resulting in abstract compositions that are both visually striking and conceptually intriguing. The "Rain Paintings" quickly became a favorite among collectors and critics alike, with some pieces achieving six-figure sums at auction shortly after his graduation. Beyond the "Rain Paintings," Smith's oeuvre includes a diverse range of works, from sculptures and installations to large-scale oil paintings. His art often merges various genres and styles, incorporating elements of layering, texture, and found materials. Smith's work is not limited to a single medium or approach; instead, he continually pushes the boundaries of what can be considered art, challenging traditional categories and expectations. Smith's exhibitions have been held in prestigious galleries and institutions across the United States. His first solo gallery exhibition took place in 2013, and since then, his work has been shown at Skarstedt Gallery, Marianne Boesky Gallery, and Half Gallery in New York, among others. His art is also represented in public and private collections, including the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, Whitney Museum of American Art, and Brooklyn Museum in New York, as well as the Carnegie Museum of Art in Pittsburgh. In addition to his painting and sculptural work, Smith has also ventured into filmmaking. He has expressed a desire to create a portrait of New York through film, following the journey of a young individual in the city. This project, based on a childhood book that had a significant impact on him, demonstrates Smith's multidisciplinary interests and his ability to translate his artistic vision across different mediums. Despite his rapid rise to fame, Smith has remained focused on the longevity and preservation of his artworks. He has spoken about the impact of events like Hurricane Sandy on his thinking, particularly regarding the archival state of art and its vulnerability to destruction. This concern for the temporal nature of art is a recurring theme in his work, as he seeks to create pieces that not only capture the attention of the viewer but also endure the test of time. Lucien Smith's career is a testament to the power of innovation and the importance of embracing new methods and ideas in the creation of art. His willingness to experiment and his commitment to his vision have established him as a leading figure in contemporary art, with a body of work that continues to evolve and inspire.

Lucien Smith Quotes and Sales of Works

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