Howard Skrill: Monumental Follies
Howard Skrill’s artistic journey began in Brooklyn, New York, where he was born in 1962—a city that would become the epicenter of his creative vision and a constant source of inspiration for his artwork. From an early age, Skrill demonstrated a fascination with visual representation, honing his skills through rigorous academic training at SUNY Purchase and subsequently earning an MFA from CUNY Queens College. This dual foundation in technique and intellectual inquiry proved crucial to his ability to tackle ambitious themes—particularly those centered on the intersection of history and memory—that would define his artistic career.
Early Influences: Skrill’s artistic sensibilities were profoundly shaped by the legacies of Rembrandt and Eugène Delacroix, artists who championed the expressive power of chiaroscuro (the dramatic interplay of light and shadow) and Romantic painting respectively. Recognizing their mastery in conveying emotion through nuanced visual elements, Skrill sought to emulate their stylistic approaches—a pursuit that instilled within him a deep appreciation for artistic craftsmanship and psychological depth. He believed that true art transcends mere imitation; it demands an understanding of the artist’s own emotional landscape and its reflection in the artwork itself.
Education & Artistic Development: His undergraduate studies at SUNY Purchase provided him with foundational skills in drawing and painting, while postgraduate coursework at CUNY Queens College further cultivated his intellectual curiosity and broadened his artistic horizons. During this period, Skrill immersed himself in critical analysis of art history—examining the cultural contexts that shaped artistic movements and exploring the ways in which artists communicate ideas beyond literal depiction. This scholarly engagement complemented his studio practice, fostering a holistic approach to artistic creation that prioritized both technical proficiency and conceptual awareness.
Brooklyn Landscape & Artistic Practice: Skrill’s current artistic endeavors are rooted in his residence in Park Slope Brooklyn—a neighborhood known for its vibrant cultural landscape and its commitment to supporting the arts. Surrounded by fellow artists and engaged in ongoing dialogue about creative pursuits, he draws inspiration from his surroundings—particularly the monumental sculptures that punctuate the cityscape. These sculptures serve as focal points for Skrill’s artistic explorations—objects that invite contemplation about commemoration, identity, and the passage of time. He meticulously renders figurative drawings of these monuments, capturing not only their physical form but also the subtle atmospheric conditions that imbue them with mood and emotion.
Notable Projects & Recognition: Skrill's artwork has garnered recognition within the New York art scene—appearing in galleries like Electric Gallery and MutualArt—and his depictions of public sculptures resonate deeply with viewers interested in grappling with complex questions about cultural memory. Among his most significant projects are “Removal of General Nathan Bedford Forrest Statue from Memphis” and “Stuart (Creepy) BRose,” which demonstrate his ability to tackle challenging subjects with sensitivity and artistic rigor. His work has been featured prominently in publications such as Carolina Quarterly, Slag Glass City and Newfound Journal—publications that underscore the breadth of his artistic influence and contribute to a broader understanding of contemporary realism.
Concluding Thoughts: Howard Skrill’s art embodies a quiet resonance—a profound engagement with visual representation coupled with an unwavering commitment to exploring themes of history and memory. Through his meticulous technique and thoughtful conceptual framework, he achieves a remarkable feat—creating images that simultaneously captivate the eye and provoke intellectual reflection. His legacy as an artist lies not merely in his stylistic innovations but also in his ability to imbue his work with emotional truth—a testament to the enduring power of observation and artistic skill in conveying complex ideas within the confines of carefully crafted depictions.
