by Brent Houzenga
In 2006 Brent Houzenga stumbled across a discarded photo album with portraits from the 1890s. This set off a surge of inspiration. Since then Brent has amassed an extensive body of work, attempting to breathe new life into the individuals in the photographs through vibrantly colored abstract paintings that incorporate stencil work and spray paint. His graffiti style brings a bold contemporary touch to the “old-timey” figures.
Later, Brent extended this style to contemporary portraits. He frequently uses one image over and over again, casting each subject in a new light by layering a new design on top. This allows him endless opportunities to explore the various facets of an individual’s character. His paintings are bright and bold. They draw interesting links between the past and the present, and between what we perceive and what is real.
Check out more of Brent’s work at his website. Contact him at BrentHouzenga@hotmail.com.
Creative Thresholds 
So glad to find this post after a blog friend tweeted a link to CT. Houzenga used to be in Des Moines – caught a show of his a long time ago and was very intrigued/impressed.
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That’s so cool. I actually met Brent when still lived in Des Moines, at an Atlanta art show. Ever since I’ve appreciated his work and I’m so glad we were able to have it here!!
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