My paintings begin with a physical process of layering paper and diluted paint across large surfaces. Parts of the surface are pressed and transferred, leaving traces and imprints where pigment and paper adhere unevenly. Pressure and time establish the first state of the image. I then work slowly, adding and removing elements, adjusting movement and balance until the painting stabilises.

From a distance the surface can appear calm and continuous. Up close it reveals interruptions: tears, voids, and dense passages of black that break the apparent unity of the surface.

The works are numbered sequentially. Each painting extends conditions established in the previous one, forming a continuous sequence rather than a set of isolated images.

Recent works are dominated by greys, with color appearing gradually within the surface.

Bio
Julien Rubat (b. 1980, Chambéry, France) transitioned from a career in technology into painting during a six-year period that he spent living in Los Angeles, CA. He has since returned to the French Alps, where he lives and works today, dividing his time between the studio and Paris.

His work is represented by Opera Gallery and has been exhibited internationally in cities including Los Angeles, New York, Seoul, Paris and Madrid. In 2020 he was awarded the Vermont Studio Center residency and fellowship.