About the Artist

Henry Callahan is an abstract painter based in metro Atlanta. After a successful career as a brand and marketing executive, he returned to art full-time more than two decades ago. His work is defined by vibrant color, refined forms, and a process grounded in action and color fields as vehicles for emotion and thought. Intended for intimate, contemplative spaces, his paintings reflect a Zen-like sensibility, a connection to nature, and a belief in intuition and empathy. A Georgia native, Callahan studied painting at Auburn University and the Maryland Institute College of Art.

Artist Statement

My fascination with various painting techniques led me to explore the use of uniquely created grid patterns. By overlaying different colors applied with grids, I brought texture into a whole new dimension. My training as a graphic designer specializing in halftone photography for print purposes provided me with a deep understanding of how paint could be applied to canvas using grids. This knowledge allowed me to create paintings that are meticulously worked and reworked, adding layers of intrigue and depth. 

Building upon previously applied paint with new color creates surfaces that surpass other application processes, including those using brushes.  Layers of acrylic paint with varying saturation and density form a history in certain areas, which the viewer can perceive through to grid levels beneath the surfaces. This activation results in a saturation of color and texture.

Painting is a physical activity that engages my entire body, relying on intuition to guide the next steps. Reflecting my passionate love for the process and my intense appreciation for color depth and texture, I create unexpected combinations that bring the artwork to life. The result is a blend of light and shadow, color and transparency, opening up a new viewing experience.

The paintings employ drips and splatters, reminiscent of Jackson Pollock’s style, but juxtapose these spontaneous elements with meticulously controlled grids and surfaces. Thick layers of paint contrast with thinly applied glazes, creating depth and shadows. The artwork is painted flat, allowing paint to be controlled and flow freely as it emerges from the surface. Color serves as the driving force, with a diverse palette and fearless use of bold primaries, yet equally comfortable with subtle pastels.

The gallery-wrapped paintings can be hung without a frame if desired, creating a floating effect on the wall as an architectural detail. These striking and dynamic images allow the eye to rest and appreciate the sensation of color. Subtle textures add an extra dimension to the paintings, enhancing their overall appreciation.

My early grid paintings were primarily abstract creations. Over the years, they gradually evolved to reflect nature and landscapes. Most recently, the grid paintings have transformed into not only abstractions, but figurative works that invite the viewer to discover human images.