I had the opportunity to participate in Gallery 66’s exhibition 'The Many Facets of Chris Gann'. The show was an incredible success, thanks not only to Chris Gann’s extraordinary body of work but also to Adrian Elliott’s thoughtful curation. Gann presented a wide range of pieces, from small works to life-size art, created in mediums such as pen, watercolor, and acrylic.
His style is reminiscent of the late Chuck Close, where intricate details such as faces and patterns combine to form powerful large-scale portraits. Up close, each work reveals countless small faces of varying shapes and sizes, woven together to create compelling figurative compositions. Beyond portraiture, Gann also showcased landscapes that conveyed remarkable depth and atmosphere, drawing viewers in through his unique approach to medium and style.
Chris Gann, the Artist
As a gamer from the 1990s and early 2000s, I was especially drawn to his retro gaming works. These included paintings of Nintendo and Sony consoles, along with depictions of iconic mascots from Nintendo, Sega, and Sony, bridging fine art with gaming nostalgia.
According to Gallery 66’s exhibition flyer, Chris Gann is a muralist, landscape painter, and advocate for artists across Connecticut, often assisting others with large-scale projects. Based in the Tobacco Valley, he lives with his family and creates both interior and exterior works, ranging from intimate pieces to expansive public murals. In addition, he restores older homes in the region, a craft that has provided him with skills and tools that enhance his artistic practice.
The flyer describes Gann’s work as an invitation to “step inside the painting, to look beyond the surface, to revel in the chaos, and to embrace the beauty of human connection, captured through painterly strokes on canvas or paper.”
In his artist statement, Gann reflects on the collection:
“In my solo exhibit, I present a collection of paintings and drawings that explore both observed and imagined landscapes. My work reflects a sense of scatteredness, with abstract forms emerging from the natural world, echoing the complexity of our emotions. Each piece serves as a kaleidoscopic design, breaking into fractals that symbolize the highs and lows of life, where vast experiences can feel both immense and microscopic. Art becomes my balance, transforming chaotic imagery into a beautiful tapestry of understanding. These artworks are windows into my mind, inviting viewers to engage with the interplay between reality and imagination, and to connect with the multifaceted landscapes we inhabit, both seen and unseen.”
"MLK" By Chris Gann, Acrylic on Canvas, 24x36
Meeting Chris Gann in person gave me a deeper appreciation for both his art and his journey. I was surprised to learn that he studied at the Rhode Island School of Design, one of the most competitive art schools in the country. Having applied there myself years ago, I know firsthand how difficult it is to be accepted. His educational background at RISD shows clearly in the professionalism and mastery of his work.
He generously shared his sketchbooks with me, and they were fascinating in their own right. He carries them everywhere, sketching regularly and painting plein air. His passion and dedication to his craft are undeniable, and I deeply admire his commitment.
It was truly an honor to meet Chris Gann and to take part in this special exhibition. His work and his story have left a lasting impression on me, both as an artist and as someone continuing to grow in my own creative journey.
Chris Gann (left) and Sasha Cubero (right)
