Houston based artist Wayne J. Bell grew up in Chicago, IL. His work consists of using oil paints along with a sketching technique known as “crosshatching,” a refined brush stroke.
When describing his body of work, Wayne calls the movement “Atmostpherism” because it depicts what can be made from time and space. Atmospherism reflects how things can be shifted, molded, and synchronized into climates unto themselves. He considers color the most important element in his work, and utilizes oil because it, like the human condition, is alive, organic, and forgiving.
He pursued a B.A in Psychology at Morehouse College, in Atlanta, Georgia. Not satisfied with a narrow scope of education, he eagerly studied anatomy, physiology and medical science. Despite his goals of becoming an OB/GYN, he knew that art was his first love. Upon graduation he traveled west to spend the next decade honing his craft in Los Angeles. “I have always been creative and, like they say, your passion never really lets go.” His love for art began at a young age building with Legos. Also, drawing which evolved to exploring watercolors and acrylics in his teen years.
Though mostly self-taught, Wayne studied Basic Drawing and Drawing II at Spelman in 2008.
Wayne is an advocate for Arts education, so he creates opportunities of advancement to young artists through the Young Artist Initiative nonprofit, by providing scholarships and buying supplies for budding artists between the ages of 16-20. Within his mission he hopes to give space to upcoming artists so their passion can come to life without undertaking several pursuits that have little reward compared to their true passion.
Exhibitions
First Solo Exhibition was “My Beating Heart,” in Los Angeles, California in 2018.
“Do you see what I see” was Wayne’s first Group Exhibition held at Gallery Guichard in Chicago, Illinois in April 2019.
Second Solo Exhibition was “W.A.T.E.R.: We Are The Expectations of Rebirth,” at Bisong Art Gallery in Houston, Texas in February 2021.
Third Solo Exhibition was held at the Lone Star Flight Museum and Hangar, titled “Trapeze,” in Houston, Texas in December 2021.
