Ron Topping

category: Visual,

Contact & Info

  • rontopping@optonline.net

Artist Statement

A member of the Katonah Museum Artists Association, I have exhibited at Katonah, Hammond & Schenectady Museums as well as various gallery and print shows. Topping began etching as a serious art form in the late 1960's; he has his work interrupted by his career in arts administration.  In the mid 90's he returned to his art with renewed enthusiasm and insight.   His work reflects reverence for the natural environment and mans elemental relationship with God and nature.  At times his work depicts the moral dilemma of man, in particular his own personal struggles.  The issues, however, are handled in a playful manner somewhat reminiscent of Klee or Miro.  His etchings are filled with symbolic images that take on both personal and social meaning.  In some of his works the effect of technology on humanity is symbolized by the image of man as an automation.  This is countered by elemental representations of sun, moon, and landscapes of rock formations that emerge as mystical personages.  These icons harp back to the art of ancient cultures such as that of American Indians, Pre-Columbian, Egyptian, and Mayan civilizations.   As Topping continues to explore their iconography as well as experiencing the technological impact of the new millennium, it will be interesting to see the direction his printmaking will take.

Educational Background