rick vermey was artist in residence at iaab atelier, St. Alban-Tal 40A, Basel,
Switzerland, from july 3rd 2000 to march 17th 2001

Artist's statement, July 2000, prior to arrival in Basel.

"My strategy for developing new artworks in Basel, is to concentrate on making sketches and small paintings influenced by what I see in art museums and on the street. Then, in a marriage of painting skills with my digital image-making abilities, I propose to re-combine these handmade studies using scanning, computer-manipulation techniques, and digital photgraphy, to produce a narrative series of digital prints. I have bold ambitions to publish a book of postcard prints, and intend to pursue opportunities to publish and exhibit in Europe.

My recent artistic activity has revolved around using the internet. This residency adds another chapter to my online adventure. Building on the tradition of 70’s mail art networks, I plan to regularly distribute artworks globally across the web, to a large community of curators, artists, publishers, collectors, social contacts and new acquaintances. In this manner I hope to create a feedback loop of communications, enriching my cultural connections and expanding the audience for my artwork.

In the nature of true cultural and artistic exchange, I anticipate that this project will evolve through the experiences I have here in Basel. I find myself working on several ideas at one time - ranging from digital photography to wall drawings to video. I have embarked on a carefree ramble into unknown territory, and the creative outcomes may be quite different from my initial expectations. I am open to influence ..."
Rick Vermey, July 2000

- :Works in Progress :-