Dana Hatchett (b. 1956)

For years, Dana Hatchett refined the intimate and meditative qualities of simple, ovoid forms. His blended colors are set in ambiguous layers in space, suggesting different levels of depth. Some appear to reference landscape in its most abstract definition. Edges are very important and highly controlled, as are subtle changes in color and texture. Hatchett’s work is meant to be contemplative. He wants the viewer to fade into the colors, so the forms operate as spiritual icons, such as a mandala or image of Buddha. East Indian and classical music sometimes play a role in creating an environment conducive to painting these peaceful images. Hatchett says he has been most influenced by Cezanne's apples and oranges, Rothko's sense of meditative space and color, and he has been deeply moved by Brice Marden's early paintings and Frank Stella's early paintings and objects.