Most people know Chad Smith as the drummer with the multi-Grammy award-winning band and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee Red Hot Chili Peppers. But, his range as an artist extends way beyond music to paintings dubbed “rhythmic expressionism.”
“His artwork is a direct visual translation of his drumming process to canvas,” says Wentworth Gallery director, Maryanne Fralinger. By working with a company that takes digital photographs of musicians playing with neon-colored instruments - in his case, drumsticks - in a dark room, Smith was able to capture the waves of motion of his drumsticks. “He selects the colors of the drumsticks, the song, the speed and the intensity that he wants. As he's drumming, swirls of color are created that really convey his emotions right onto the image.”
Once these images were created, he transferred them to canvas and incorporated his own unique stamp. “He added in acrylic paint to intensify them and broaden the colors and went with bright, explosive, bold combinations,” she says. “He felt that that would really communicate the actual power of the drumming and the sound and the music to more authentically show who he is as a drummer and as a visual artist.”
Wentworth Gallery has represented many musical artists over the years including drummer Rick Allen from Def Leppard, legendary solo guitarist Joe Satriani, and Paul Stanley, the lead singer of Kiss. “We really focus on trying to make that personal connection by bringing the artists into our different locations so it's not just about buying a piece to decorate your home, but instead it’s a whole experience of meeting and learning about that artist and making them a personal part of your life,” says Maryanne.
They’re excited to host a show of Smith’s artwork in their Short Hills location on March 1,
where collector's acquiring artwork can meet him, discuss his extraordinary creations, and be photographed with him and their new art!
People come from all over to attend these artists’ meets and if for some reason they can’t make it, Wentworth can ship any piece to one of their five locations in the United States or anywhere else in the country. They can also ship around the world.
Of course, the gallery represents many other artists as well. “People can walk in every day and see something new with our constantly changing collection,” she says.
To meet Chad Smith or one of your other favorite artists, check out the gallery’s list of upcoming events online and also view their wide array of artwork.
WentworthGallery.com/ChadSmith.html
In addition to being the renowned drummer for the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Chad Smith has worked with an extraordinary assortment of artists including Ozzy Osbourne, Johnny Cash, Eddie Vedder, Kid Rock, Joe Satriani, and Post Malone. Now, he’s also a visual artist who wants to portray the emotion, fluidity and intensity he experiences while drumming.
Smith also loves sharing his passion for music and art with others, especially young people. He's lobbied to make sure arts and music programs stay in schools because he believes that kids don't necessarily know what their skills are until they're given the opportunities to find out. Without these programs, he feels that the world may miss out on future amazing and talented artists.