Chad Shepherd: Statement of Intent                                                                                                                                                                                       Master of Fine Arts


My work has often explored themes of memory, loss, longing, history, social issues, emotions, and ways of being. My goal has been to create work that resonates with viewers on a personal level, prompting reflection and introspection, and contributing to a deeper understanding of the human experience.


My artistic practice currently focuses on exploring simple paint applications through grids and meditative processes, incorporating chance operations in the process. This approach allows me to engage more deeply with the objects I paint on and discover the beauty in the mistakes, deformities, and irregularities of the surface. I have explored both deep solitude and a communal lifestyle heavily involved in collaboration. I've grown in the former and thrived in the latter. Both provided some growth and introspection and furthered my desire to be a part of a community, to be a part of a team. 


The element of chance in my artistic practice, where I embrace the unpredictable and welcome unexpected outcomes, fosters a dynamic interplay between deliberate choices and unforeseen elements. This balance of control and surrender creates a thrilling complexity within my work. Additionally, a spirit of exploration and discovery drives my artistic journey. I constantly experiment with and refine my techniques, always seeking new tools and materials to integrate into my creative process. This approach ensures continuous evolution, pushing my boundaries and opening doors to new avenues of expression.


Music and photography have both significantly influenced my creative expression. Although my primary focus has been on performative noise music and songwriting, I've recently realized the impact photography has had on my practice. In the future, I would like to explore the intersection of these disciplines in new work. 


Ultimately, I intend for my work to be impactful, emotional, and aggressive, while remaining grounded in research and connected to the traditions of graffiti, street art, and political art. While seeking to bring more structure to my practice, I want to preserve the essential element of the physical act of applying paint or making a mark—an action I consider to be spiritual, as it evolves into a ritual over time. It becomes a necessity. 


While I have always believed in my ability to succeed as a self-taught artist, I recognize the value of professional guidance in furthering my artistic career. The MFA program at OSU is particularly appealing because of its emphasis on learning, research and service.


My professional aspirations include:


Currently, I see my primary inspiration for this program being the representation of Utopian ideals in architecture. My primary influences are Constant Nieuwenhuys and John Hejduk. Constant’s' New Babylon explores the concept of abundant free time for creativity in the future. Hejduk's architectural work offers a source of endless fascination and inspiration due to its poetic and enigmatic qualities. This subject offers a broad range of historical research and literature to delve into and explore, and appears to be a valuable topic during what I perceive as a time of potential unrest.


I'm confident that the MFA program at OSU will be instrumental in helping me achieve these goals and develop as a successful artist. I'm eager to join this community of artists, learn from my peers, and engage in collaborative creative endeavors. I'm actively working to re-invigorate my strong connection to others.