Resplendent Enigmas: Brad Kunkle

A man gives many question marks, however, a woman is a whole mystery.  ~Diana Stürm

Artist Brad Kunkle is a creator of feminine mysteries.  Haunting, glistening visual fairy tales which are at once throwbacks to the past and yet thoroughly modern.

Candela, oil and silver leaf on wood, 33x32

His work takes inspiration from the Pre-Raphaelite era, as evidenced by the medieval-feel of the compositions, near photographic precision and intricate surface detail.

The Quickening, oil and gold and silver on linen, 44x22

But don’t be mistaken, Kunkle’s figures and compositions are not antiquated, but rather fresh and current.  The paintings are like pages of out a Vogue magazine fairy tale– and I mean that in the best possible way.  These aren’t helpless ingenues, but contemporary women caught up in circumstance.

Afela's Nature by Brad Kunkle, oil and gold and silver on linen, 16x14

The Arrangement, oil and silver leaf on linen, 34x18

These are the modern daughters of Eve, tempted and tempting, the subject of desire and blame.  Filled with sensual strength tinged with sadness.  Kunkle tells the story of their past by placing them in classical compositions and poses, but the elegant background treatments and inherent edginess keep them firmly on current ground.

The Source, oil and gold and silver on linen, 26x18

To see more of Brad Kunkle’s work, please visit his website.  If you’re in the New York area, his work is represented by Arcadia Gallery, where he will exhibit a solo show in Spring 2012.

Featured image is “Girl With Serpent and Pearls”, oil and gold and silver on linen, 25×30.

All images are courtesy of the artist’s website.