Mick Gronek

Since 1977, Southern California-based visual artist Mick Gronek has been engaged in a process of exploration that is rooted in the traditions of painting and influenced by printmaking techniques.  

Through these techniques he has created his own interpretation of contemporary abstraction.  After studying at U.C. Riverside, he began to experiment with patinas and various metals to create a process of “chemical painting”.  He has participated in numerous solo and group exhibitions, including juried shows by critic Peter Frank and artists Judy Chicago and Laddie Dill.  After completing his B.A. degree from U.C. Riverside and an M.F.A. degree from Claremont Graduate University he began exhibiting his work and is currently represented by Fresh Paint in Culver City, CA., Velocity Art and Design in Seattle, WA.  He lives in San Jacinto and teaches at Mt. San Jacinto College. 

Acting within the constructs of painting, my work involves the application of patinas on various metals to provoke an alchemical transformation.  I set into motion a partially uncontrolled process of oxidation that will continue to react to its environment in an unfixed state.  This activated surface is visually layered to create an ambiguity of spatial depth and meaning.