Abstract Expressionist Art by Christopher Sharits
A Colorado based artist.
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Bio: An American Abstract Artist
My father was the experimental filmmaker, artist, and University of Buffalo Media Studies Professor Paul J. Sharits. He died of suicide in 1993 at the young age of 50. He has been called the Grandfather of flicker film which is a misnomer since he was inspired and mentored by the likes of Stan Brakage.
His artwork toured Europe when he was still in High School, but it was his 1960’s films like Wintercourse and WORDS that propelled him into the top of the experimental film world. His films, of which there are about 60, are still shown somewhere in the world at any given time on any given day. Many of the most prestigious museums and galleries around the world own his artwork and many own large film installations. Anytime experimental film is taught he is sure to be a major part of the course.
Obviously, having Paul as my father meant that I was always being “taught” and exposed to art and film constantly. Even as a 3-year-old I remember being led by the hand through that day’s art lesson. The professor in him never turned off. I treasure the art education and the exposure he gave me into the fine arts, performance arts, abstract arts, musical arts, and every culture and diverse people I believe there are.
He wanted me to be cultured and worldly and I freaked him out by becoming a warehouse executive. But I married the love of my life at age 19 and I needed steady income so we could raise my three beautiful “cultured” now grown men. My wife and I are about to celebrate our 36th year anniversary.
While I have always worked with art and photography in one way or another, it was not until 2010 that I found my groove and personal style in abstract art. I was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder I in 2000 and it kept eating away at my ability to function as an executive, so I slowly transitioned to art as a full-time career. I am also the curator and right’s holder for all my father’s work so royalties help pay the bills. Now I only wear ties for weddings, funerals, and dates with my wife.
I completed my undergraduate at Buffalo State Collage (Summa Cum Laude) and a Master’s in International Relations from The University of Denver and a Master of Education from the American Intercontinental University. I dropped out of law school (Zzzzzz) and my PhD program was unjustifiably expensive. I now use all the degrees and none of the degrees. Artist for life. My dad would be so proud… of the artist part.
All of my emotions and life are revealed in my artwork and I hope that you find something that evokes an emotion in you. Thank you for taking the time to read this “not so” short bio.
Be well, be kind, and be free.
- Christopher