Charles Eckart

Charles Eckart: Etching the Essence of Nature

Born in 1935 in Oakland, California, Charles Eckart's artistic journey was profoundly influenced by his upbringing in the majestic landscapes of Yosemite Valley. This early immersion in nature's grandeur laid the foundation for a lifelong exploration of form, texture, and the interplay between the tangible and the abstract.

Eckart's formal art education began at the University of the Pacific, followed by studies at the Art Center College of Design in Los Angeles, where he was mentored by notable artists such as Lorser Feitelson, John Altoon, and Louis Danziger. He further honed his skills at the San Francisco Art Institute. In 1966, Eckart embarked on his printmaking journey, establishing his own press and integrating etching into his artistic repertoire. His etchings have consistently paralleled the evolution of his painting, reflecting shifts in subject matter and technique. 

Initially, Eckart's work was characterized by expressionist figurative imagery, capturing the human form with dynamic lines and emotive gestures. However, a significant transition occurred in 1985 when he relocated from San Francisco to the serene environs of Point Reyes. This move marked a shift in focus from the human figure to the natural landscape, leading to the creation of abstracted landscapes that resonate with energy and texture. 

Eckart's "Ground Cover" series exemplifies this evolution. These etchings, derived from direct observations of the intimate landscape, are constructed through the meticulous layering of pigment, akin to the process of painting. This approach results in works that are rich in texture and depth, inviting viewers to engage with the subtle complexities of the natural world. 

Throughout his career, Eckart has maintained a strong presence in the art community, exhibiting regularly with the Charles Campbell Gallery from 1980 to 1989 and with the Campbell-Thiebaud Gallery from 1990 to 2000. His works have been featured in various exhibitions, including "Adventures of the Optic Nerve" at the Seager Gray Gallery, which highlighted his intelligent compositions and the deliberate application of pigment resulting in luscious surfaces. 

Eckart's contributions to the field of printmaking are also recognized in public collections. Notably, the Triton Museum of Art holds his etching "Untitled Head," reflecting his exploration of form and abstraction.