Biography

John Chehak, life-long resident of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, is a self-taught, award-winning artist who has been painting professionally for more than 25 years. John’s medium of choice is acrylic on paper and canvas using brush and palette knife. His original work has taken on new and unique personalities with vibrant colors, symmetry, and compelling presentation. Chehak describes his many mesmerizing styles as having developed from the need to “un-trap himself” from an artistic routine to explore other expressive and imaginative opportunities.

the Way Home, Acrylic on paper matted and framed, 60x60cm, 2020

He has been described as a mid-century style artist, a cubist, a minimalist reminiscent of Braque and Picasso, and a few years ago, an online reviewer wrote, “Native Iowan John Chehak is a masterful draftsman and painter… His wide expanse of expertise and style make his artwork a treat to explore.” Regardless of description, Chehak strives to create original work in style, color, and subject matter.

Nine on a Wire, Acrylic on paper matted and framed, 43x76cm, 2024

He has been featured on the University of Iowa’s website the Daily Palette; in 2002 was chosen to display his artwork in the Iowa Governor’s Mansion; his Urban Crowding was selected as the January 2010 Cover art for JMCP magazine; in 2015 John’s Iowa Landscape was chosen as banner art for the MFA Creative Writing Program at Iowa State University; and early in 2016, he finished a successful one-man show at The Biomedical Research Facility at the University of Iowa Medical Campus in Iowa City, IA.

The Warehouse, Acrylic on papermatted and framed, 60x60cm, 2023

In 2018 he was honored by being chosen as the Commemorative Print Artist for the 25th Annual St. Louis Art Fair in Clayton Mo. In 2020 he was selected as the representative poster artist for the well-known 57th Street Art Fair, in Chicago, Illinois.

Rivers Edge, Acrylic on Paper matted and framed, 45x75cm, 2023

Currently, Mr. Chehak has patrons in more than 40 states. For the past several years John and his wife Debbie have participated in exclusive juried art fairs in Chicago, Marion Iowa, Evanston, Minneapolis, Edina Mn, Omaha, Elmhurst Il, Winnetka Il, Geneva Il, Wheaton Il, Oconomowoc Wi, St. Charles Il, Peoria Il, Northbrook Il, St. Louis Mo, and Madison Wi.

Lake Reflects, Acrylic on paper matted and framed, 60x60cm, 2023

Artist Statement

I started applying for representation in regional juried art fairs in 2010 and since then I have participated in more than 85 shows within a 250-mile radius of Cedar Rapids. Most notably Chicago, Minneapolis, St. Louis, Geneva and Naperville, Illinois and Madison.

The Fishin Hole, Acrylic on Paper matted and Framed,40x75cm, 2023 50x75cm,

In retrospect, I estimate that I have created hundreds of original paintings. I must view that as a validation of my effort and a lot of encouragement to paint more. Although people have tried to define or compare my style(s), I have never tried to copy any specific artist.

It's Raining Acid Again, Acrylic on paper matted and framed, 60x60cm, 2021

Acrylic paint is very versatile. It can resemble watercolor, oil, and has a unique look by itself. I generally prefer painting on archival watercolor paper, and I like using acrylic paint - for the very reason most oil painters hate it – it dries quickly. In fact, I dry my paint application with a mechanical dryer which allows me to create multiple layers quickly.

Urban Pollution, Acrylic on paper matted and framed, 202345x60cm,

Because acrylic paint can be somewhat flat looking, I apply a finishing coat or two of acrylic clearcoat to make the colors pop and provide additional protection. I finish the work with a white matte, standard 2-inch-deep black frame with acrylic cover (glass is just too heavy and of course, breaks). This creates a consistent look that diminishes the effect of the frame and emphasizes the painting.

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