Ian Wagner

Perhaps what you’re expecting of this body of work is an explicit narrative. Even though these pieces suggest a broader narrative, they are only the imitations of something more substantial. Much like an illustration, but not quite. No particular thought or commentary. No critique of the contemporary landscape. Just inspired by years of mass media consumption. Like a haunted house attraction, really - you bring your own angst and courage to the work. Good luck, godspeed.
As for the physical creation of the work, things proceeded differently than usual. In prior larger ink and watercolor works, I would start with a single mark and feel my way around in the dark looking for an image - exciting and producing interesting results, but resulting in stagnation after a while. This go around, drawings laid the foundation of the pieces before applying the ink, leaving some room for slight adjustments if needed - a hand here, an eyebrow there. More abstract elements were intentionally made to exist in this batch - hard edges, menacing shapes, drunken graphic design - I simply couldn’t let the figures just [be], they needed to be antagonized by something that wasn’t of the human variety. Small dashes of color were a must: too much, and it overwhelms the feel of the ink. As in all things, “moderation…”

Ian Wagner Resume

Ian Wagner's solo exhibition is on view September 18 - October 13, 2024.
Virtual Tour & Talk with Ian Wagner

7th Inning Stretch, ink & watercolor on paper by Cerulean Arts Collective Member Ian Wagner

7th Inning Stretch, ink & watercolor, 12" x 9" Available

Allure, ink & watercolor on paper by Cerulean Arts Collective Member Ian Wagner

Allure, ink & watercolor, 12" x 9" Available

Decorum, ink & watercolor on paper by Cerulean Arts Collective Member Ian Wagner

Decorum I, ink & watercolor, 12" x 9" Available

Decorum, ink & watercolor on paper by Cerulean Arts Collective Member Ian Wagner

To the Moon and Back, ink & watercolor, 12" x 9" Available

Decorum II, ink & watercolor on paper by Cerulean Arts Collective Member Ian Wagner

Decorum II, ink & watercolor, 12" x 9" Available

Mischievious, ink & watercolor on paper by Cerulean Arts Collective Member Ian Wagner

Mischievious, ink & watercolor, 12" x 9" Available

Open Seat, ink and watercolor on paper by Cerulean Arts Collective Member Ian Wagner

Open Seat, ink & watercolor, 12" x 9" Available

Smirk, ink and watercolor on paper by Cerulean Arts Collective Member Ian Wagner

Smirk, ink & watercolor, 12" x 9" Available

Full Moon, ink and watercolor on paper by Cerulean Arts Collective Member Ian Wagner

Full Moon, ink & watercolor, 12" x 9" Available

Pickup, ink and watercolor on paper by Cerulean Arts Collective Member Ian Wagner

Pickup, ink & watercolor, 12" x 9" Available

Spring Jacket I, ink and watercolor on paper by Cerulean Arts Collective Member Ian Wagner

Spring Jacket I, ink & watercolor, 12" x 9" Available

Spring Jacket II, ink and watercolor on paper by Cerulean Arts Collective Member Ian Wagner

Spring Jacket II, ink & watercolor, 12" x 9" Available

Party Dress, ink and watercolor on paper by Cerulean Arts Collective Member Ian Wagner

Party Dress, ink & watercolor, 12" x 9" Available

Wake-Up Call I, ink and watercolor on paper by Cerulean Arts Collective Member Ian Wagner

Wake-Up Call I, ink & watercolor, 12" x 9" Available

Wake-Up Call II, ink and watercolor on paper by Cerulean Arts Collective Member Ian Wagner

Wake-Up Call II, ink & watercolor, 12" x 9" Available

Wake-Up Call III, ink and watercolor on paper by Cerulean Arts Collective Member Ian Wagner

Wake-Up Call III, ink & watercolor, 12" x 9" Available

Ian Wagner's last solo exhibition was held May 10 - June 4, 2023. A selection of his works is currently available at the gallery as indicated. For inquiries on all other works shown, please Contact Us.