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About Lex Halakan
Lex Halakan, an evocative painter renowned for his surreal landscapes, was born and raised in Schenectady, NY. His childhood, imbued with the quiet charm of this modest city, was unremarkable in its artistic inclinations. Halakan's journey into the world of art is a testament to the notion that it'snever too late to pursue your passion. It wasn’t until the age of fifty-three that he picked up a paintbrush, inspired by his late wife, Deborah Webster, herself a virtuoso in the artistic realm. Deborah, who became both his mentor and muse, provided him with the foundational guidance yet allowed him the freedom to explore and define his unique style.
Entirely self-taught under Deborah’s watchful eye, Lex's progression in art was characterized by a series of trial and error, confronting each canvas with an experimental fervor. His lack of formal training only emboldened his imaginative approach, enabling him to break conventional boundaries. Lex’s creative process is a harmonious blend of nature and imagination, effortlessly merging the two to create quasi-abstract works that captivate his audience.
Halakan's artistic journey took a pivotal turn in 2010 when he and Deborah moved to Anna Maria Island, Florida. The island's stunningly vibrant cloud formations, breathtaking sunsets, and the serene vistas of the Gulf of Mexico profoundly influenced his work. It was here that his affinity for painting sky and water truly flourished, with the natural beauty of his surroundings serving as a perpetual inspiration.
Pastels became Lex's first medium of choice, drawn to the tactile satisfaction it provided, allowing him to manipulate and form his work with his fingers. Through years of dedication, he refined his technique, resulting in pieces that exude a unique balance of reality and imagination. His work’s distinctiveness lies in this very synergy – a seamless integration that reimagines the natural world through a dreamlike lens.
Among his most cherished accolades is being awarded Best in Painting at the National Weather Center Biennale in 2017 – a testament to his prowess in capturing the ephemeral beauty of the sky. His recognition extends beyond national borders, with notable awards such as the Grand Prize at the 67th annual Cooperstown National Juried Exhibition serving to cement his reputation in the art world.
Throughout his career, Lex and Deborah's artistic footprint was further solidified by their gallery and studio, Artspace, Anna Maria, which they operated from 2012 until 2020 on Anna Maria Island. It became a cherished haven where their combined artistic visions thrived and inspired countless visitors.
Despite such recognition, Lex remains profoundly humble about his influence and impact. His major artistic influences include the likes of Thomas Cole and Joseph Turner, luminaries whose mastery in landscapes echoes subtly in Lex’s own work.
The role of art in society, according to Halakan, is fundamental. It serves not merely as an aesthetic pleasure but as a reflection of our deepest values and beliefs, offering commentary and comfort through its evocative power. Halakan aspires for his art to evoke not only visual pleasure but also a deeper contemplation of nature and imagination's interplay.
Lex Halakan’s journey as an artist is a compelling narrative of passion and perseverance, illustrating that the artistic spirit can thrive at any stage of life. His works continue to enchant, each painting a testament to the boundless landscapes of both his surroundings and imagination.