Howard Behrens: The Monet of the 21st Century and Master of Palette Knife Painting

 

Howard Behrens's Paintings

Howard Behrens (1933-2014) remains an enduring figure in American art, rightfully earning the title of the "Monet of the 21st century" for his vibrant and positively charged paintings. Renowned for his mastery of the palette knife technique, Behrens created a world of beauty on canvas that combines rich colors, craftsmanship, and his distinctive style. Let's delve into the life and artistry of this remarkable American painter. Born in 1933 in Chicago, Illinois, Howard Behrens spent his formative years near Washington, D.C. His journey into the world of art commenced at the age of 17, following a period of being bedridden due to a sledding accident. This enforced hiatus sparked his interest in painting, setting the stage for a career that would leave an indelible mark on the art world. Behrens pursued formal art education at the University of Maryland, College Park, ultimately earning a Master of Fine Arts in painting and sculpture. Despite working for seventeen years at the US Government Printing Office, his passion for art remained undiminished. His distinctive style began to take shape during these early years, marked by a love for bright colors, dynamic palette knife strokes, and a profound understanding of space and light.

The Monet of the 21st Century

Howard Behrens is often hailed as the "Monet of the 21st century," a title that reflects his commitment to capturing the essence of beauty, grace, and harmony in his paintings. His works, filled with vibrant colors, transport viewers to a world of warmth and positivity. The artist's connection to the post-impressionism technique lends a dreamy quality to his paintings, creating a unique atmosphere that goes beyond realism.

Mastery of Palette Knife Painting

What sets Behrens apart is his adeptness at the "knife on palette" technique. Unlike traditional brushes, Behrens used a palette knife to create his masterpieces. He once wrote about this technique, stating, "I learned many years ago that the only way I could really achieve what I felt in my paintings was to create them with a palette knife instead of a brush. I love the boldness of the knife and the control of color." This bold approach allowed Behrens to infuse his paintings with a rich, textured quality. The knife strokes not only captured the softness of clouds but also conveyed the boldness of mountains, the vibrancy of colors, and the power of water. His paintings, such as "Sunny Days," exemplify the dynamic interplay of colors and the expressive potential of the palette knife.

Legacy and Impact

Throughout his career, Behrens's works adorned the covers of various art publications, graced the pages of magazines and newspapers, and found a place in numerous private collections and museums. His paintings, often depicting the scenic beauty of Italy and Greece, resonate with viewers, offering a visual escape into idyllic landscapes. In 2014, Howard Behrens succumbed to Parkinson's disease, leaving behind a legacy of beautiful paintings that continue to captivate and inspire. While he may no longer be with us, his art serves as a timeless testament to the power of color, technique, and the enduring spirit of a true master of palette knife painting. Behrens, the romantic artist and poet on canvas, remains immortal through the vivid strokes and vibrant hues that define his extraordinary body of work.