Andrew Rieder: Artist Statement

The paintings I create are intended to be visual metaphors for ongoing human struggles. My initial goal is to produce a pictorial space that contains a somewhat whimsical narrative, but is reflective of a current social condition. Issues surrounding the socio-economic systems of contemporary society inspire me. This stems from my personal work history and a familial heritage of industrial and manual labor.
My sensitivity to the economic struggles and stereotyping of others comes through recognition of my personal heritage as well as a personal labor history. I want to convey this empathy and its rationale to my audience through my art and raise the viewer’s awareness of themselves as citizens of humanity.