Buffalo Rising Online

Jul 2nd 2007, 11:42am By Laura Sargent

Ran Webber cannot help but salvage discarded papers found in the streets of Buffalo. “I am intrigued by paper. I use paper bag paper which is non-archival,” Ran said.

Ran believes that the concept and materials that he incorporates into his highly textured paintings takes precedence over a more traditional aesthetic. He combines a certain subjective geometric precision with intuitive strokes and also lets nature play a role in the execution of his paintings. These creations lend themselves to lyrical fusion of vibrancy and form.

His process requires a strict devotion and patience. Once he has obtained paper, he seals it and then folds it, with no planned intention of its final appearance. The folds manifest themselves into different characters or images, which Ran then paints. The process is only half complete at this stage. Each one then travels as Ran's companion as he hikes or kayaks in places such as Zoar Valley. Often times, on winter days, the paintings are left alone on the sidewalk in snowstorms or in the center of the road, to be run over. “The objective is to dissolve and destroy the painted surface and then I bring them back to my studio and reinvent them, glue them back together, paint them and fold them again to destroy some of the geometry.”

Such an obsession with process and form was contrived early in Ran's life. "This metal disk is an object that I have carried with me since I was 15; it looks like it was the top of a metal garbage can that had been crushed in the alley where I had found it. I saw this very interesting figure in the folds and the crumpling of the metal, and as it rusted it just stood out as a character. Actually, that's been what my work is all about,” Ran explained. The metal disk that he refers to is tacked to the far wall of his studio. Side by side, his paintings seem to have undertaken the same damage as the metal. I believe that Ran has some sense of the vulnerability of different materials to natural processes and new life.

Ran Webber has focused his creative energy on other endeavors as well. Originally an architect, Ran has written a book that delves into inventive ideas for the reconstruction of Allentown. He is currently offering some great ideas to the City of Buffalo about how they might keep the skyway for another function. His ingenious ideas are there for the picking, if any college student cares for an apprenticeship. He could use the help on a few upcoming projects and his website.

Ran has a loose and carefree demeanor that has come after years of complete dedication and hard work. Ran has worked hard to make a living as an artist in the area, but he can relax at last. “Give it your all until your 30. If it's not going well, get a really good job, retire poor and do your art. You'll still be young and happy.”

Ran Webber
573 West Delevan
885.5835
ran@digallery.com
ranwebber.artspan.com