Francis Demaske

I’ve always been fascinated with architecture. The wonder of the design, shape and engineering featured in buildings, bridges and old industrial structures is captivating. As a result, I applied to Kent State University School of Architecture in the winter of 1985. KSU turned down my application conditionally pending I complete a required physics. By the time I was notified, it was mid August and classes were about to begin. Admissions suggested the Visual Communication program as an option. They said I would be unconditionally accepted into the program, so I jumped at the opportunity and began design classes in the fall of that year. It is amazing how something such as a missing physics class could dramatically change the course of one’s life. I eventually completed both a BFA and MFA in Graphic Design and Illustration from Kent State University in 1992 and began my career as a professor at Edinboro University of PA, graphic designer, illustrator and painter. 

I have painted and illustrated a plethora of subjects in a variety of mediums over the years but still today my interests in architecture has had a powerful and profound impact upon my work. These particular paintings was the result of the changing urban landscape of Cleveland. Many of these moving bridges, cranes and support structures have disappeared from the urban landscape. The viewpoints, the way the structures cut the sky into neat geometric shapes and the rough textural patina on the surfaces of the iron and steel that had evolved from years of exposure to the harsh Cleveland winters made for an intriguing subject. A view of the Cleveland Skyline From the West 9th Street Bridge was completed July 9, 2013.  This was the first painting in the series. My goal was to capture the effects of light and color on these bridges and supports made of rusting iron and steel. In addition, to record the rhythms, forms, shapes and structures and the way they cut the cool September sky into neat geometric shapes revealing a view of the Cleveland city skyline that lies at the center. A view that in many cases can no longer be seen.