Millersport Highway & Crosspoint Parkway

• Artist: David Thiel
  
  
  • Biography:
    David Thiel is a contemporary abstract expressionist artist based in Buffalo, New York. known for his vibrant acrylic paintings and dynamic time-lapse videos that document his creative process. His work has garnered attention both locally and online, establishing him as a notable figure in Buffalo's art scene.
  
  
  • Artistic Style and Medium:
    Thiel's paintings are characterized by bold colors, energetic brushwork, and a commitment to spontaneity, aligning with the principles of abstract expressionism. He primarily uses Liquitex Basics acrylic paints, allowing for vivid color application and rapid layering. His approach emphasizes movement and emotion, often resulting in compositions that evoke a sense of rhythm and intensity.
  
  
  • Exhibitions and Community Engagement:
    Active in Buffalo's art community, Thiel has participated in various exhibitions and events. Notably, he showcased his work during the “First Friday” event at The Button Factory” in Buffalo, where his abstract paintings were on display throughout September 2023. His involvement in such events with local audiences underscores his commitment to engaging with local audiences and contributing to the city's vibrant arts culture.
  
  
  • Online Presence and Time-Lapse Videos:
    Beyond traditional exhibitions, Thiel has cultivated a substantial online following through his YouTube channel, “ David Thiel Abstract Painting”. With over 100 time-lapse videos, he offers viewers an intimate look into his painting process, capturing the evolution of his artworks from blank canvas to finished piece. These videos not only showcase his technical skills but also provide insight into his creative journey, resonating with a global audience.
  
  
  • Artistic Philosophy:
    Thiel's work embodies the essence of abstract expressionism, focusing on the act of painting as a means of personal expression. His dynamic works reflect a balance between control and spontaneity, inviting viewers to interpret the emotional undertones conveyed through color and form.
    
    Through his vibrant paintings and engaging time-lapse videos, David Thiel continues to make a significant impact on both local and on-line art communities, sharing his passion for abstract expressionism with a wide and diverse audience.
  
  
  • Inspiration:
    As a proud member of this community, I was inspired to create this abstract expressionist design as a reflection of the energy, movement, and rhythm of our daily lives. Just like the traffic that flows through these intersections, our stories cross and connect in vibrant, unpredictable ways.
    
    This artwork captures that dynamic spirit - layered color, spontaneous gesture, and bold composition come together to evoke a sense of shared momentum. I chose abstraction to allow space for personal interpretation, so each passerby might find something of themselves in the piece - a mood, a memory, a motion.
    
    By transforming a functional structure like a traffic signal cabinet into a work of public art, i hope to spark a moment of reflection, wonder, or simply a pause to appreciate beauty in the everyday. This is both a tribute to the community that shaped me and an invitation to see the familiar in a new light.

Progress Photos (click to expand)

Niagara Falls Blvd. & Tonawanda Creek Rd.

• Artist: Kim Gryckiewicz
  
  
  • Biography:
    Kim has been covering the canvas since 6th grade, and continues to bring her faith into her art. She earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Daemen College in 2015 after creating an award winning senior show. As a resident of Buffalo, NY, she has participated in a variety of local art shows and has won honors for her work over the years. Presently, she works as a professional artist full time, and is in a business with her husband, who is a Fine Art Photographer. Her goal is to make each work of art glorify God through representing His creation, the Bible, and the Gospel.
  
  
  • Inspiration:
    One afternoon while going on a walk with my husband, we saw a herd of deer coming our way. When our eyes met theirs, we stopped and took in the beautiful scene of the evening sunlight surrounding these wild animals. The smell of spring was just starting as the birds sang their chorus; unbothered by our presence. Suddenly, one doe began to approach us. We slowly matched its pace; trying not to startle the other deer. She stepped. We followed. This continued until she was only a few feet away, and we all came to a halt. Staring for a bit, we studied each other until she noticed we had no food. The doe turned and led her group down the lane of budding trees for a snack. One by one the deer turned away as we waved goodbye.
    
    I wanted to paint the beauty of the scene I experienced that evening in Amherst. I am still so surprised by the amount of wildlife we have in our area despite busy streets like Sheridan, Main, Maple, and Niagara Falls Boulevard. I also wanted to provide a reminder and warning for drivers due to the increase in deer sightings for our area. Always be safe, and enjoy the seasons of life.

Progress Photos (click to expand)