Battlemouth

Jeremiah Ketner (Small and Round) is a master. For me (and probablly most) art is about emotion. Across all mediums, the emotions I take away from a song, or painting, or drawing, or sculpture is what makes it fantastic or horrible. This is also the reason that I have so much trouble picking “favorite” artists. I have two neices and one nephew…I have watched them grow up from tiny babies into…well….older babies…some of Mr. Ketner’s work brings that same smile to my face I get every time I look at them, and the rest are just beautiful. His technique is so smooth, his colors warm but delicate, each stroke of his brush is filled with love. I found Small and Round on twitter, belive it or not, and pretty much became an instant fan. He was gratious enough to take the time out from his busy schedule to join in on the “7 Questions Indie Artist Edition”.

Without further adieu…7 Questions with Small and Round.

1. Who is Small and Round?

The name Small and Round came about one day on a visit to Japan. I was amazed at how Japanese design makes everything seem cute an compact thus “small and round” was noted in my sketchbook. A year or so later, I decided to use it as my identity.

2. When/how did you start painting?

I started painting at a very young age. My Father is an Artist so that helped give me a boost into the art-world. I think I started painting in Oils when I was 11 years old. I liked to paint animals. Mostly wildlife, tigers, bears, deer and my favorite the american bald eagle.

3. If one of your pieces were to be turned into a roller coaster, what would it look like?

Hell on earth. I am not sure if I would want to ride on anything made out of flowers, vines, pixie like creatures and pretty girls.

4. What is your favorite piece that you have done? Someone else?

I am really happy with my latest body of work. Especially a number of pieces that I made for a show at Rotofugi in April.
Probably one of my favorites is “Parlay of Flowers” Which surprisingly has no home as of yet.

5. Where do you get your inspiration?

Coffee, Cafe Mochas, Really good Capuchins and one of my favorites micro beers. Well, those are the things that drive the inspiration.
Tangible sources of inspiration stem from visits to the Chicago Botanical Gardens, spending long days outside with my kids and the lovely gaze of a muse.

6. If you could go back in time and meet any famous artist, who would it be and why?

I would love to meet Balthus. He had an intriguing lifestyle and I have always enjoyed his works. I think it would be rather fun to hit up the town with Francis Bacon. His documentaries are hilarious. I think I can relate with his engaging and sarcastic nature. Kustav Klimt would be an interesting fellow to meet. I often wonder what type of character he would be. Gentle and sincere or a pompous asshole, not sure what it would be like. But I do enjoy his work and would say he is one of my favorite Masters.

7. Does working out of Chicago hurt or help your career as an artist? Vs. the benefits of a more costal location.

I would certainly say it’s really important for an Artist to submerge their self within a thriving community rich with diverse culture. Its helpful to be exposed to art on every level and there is a strong energy of underground and mid career Artist here in Chicago. They may not sell there work so well but really work hard and are dedicated. It’s a tough call, Chicago can be a struggle for someone who is fresh to the art scene and looking to show in galleries. I certainly had a difficult time getting shows when I moved here in 2000. The type of genre I am working in was better received in the west coast. For a time I was showing only on the west coast and had no representation in Chicago. I would say its a great town and I am happy to call it home. Well only during the summer. The winters here are freaking painful and unnecessary.

Be sure to check out http://www.smallandround.com to order your original works, as well as www.rotofugi.com!