Sam Friedman moves between representational and abstract depictions with seeming ease and spontaneity. His paintings explore the formal concerns of paint, tools and surfaces as they relate to the scale of the human body, and his narratives resist progressive plots; without a beginning or end, the works become infinite. For each piece he manifests, there are countless interpretations that do not become physical, yet remain in the artist’s mind with a boundlessness that resonates with the viewer.

Friedman’s work is rooted in the tradition of American Abstract Expressionist painters who explored line, color, and the systematic application of paint. Within this heritage, Friedman examines methodical processes where repetition and self imposed parameters lay the groundwork for his compositions but permit him the freedom to build each piece instinctively by hand. Rather than masking each successive gradient to create a manufactured finish, the artist premixes his colors and lays down line after line freehand, allowing imperfections to emerge.

Friedman studied illustration and typography at the Pratt Art Institute and has presented solo exhibitions in the United States, Europe and Asia. His work has been featured in Architectural Digest, Artsy, Hypebeast, High Snobiety, Juxtapoz and other publications.

Born in Oneonta, New York in 1984
Lives and works in Pleasant Valley, New York