Canadian Artist Joseph Drapell was born in Czechoslovakia in 1940. A contemporary of the Painters Eleven, Joseph is known for his signature technique of applying paint with a broad spreading device attached to a moveable support in even and continues semi-mechanical sweeps.
Joseph's work is in private and public Canadian and International collections, such as the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, Art Gallery of Ontario, National Gallery, Prague and more.
This exhibition at the John Mann Gallery highlights a selection of Drapell’s most compelling works, offering insight into his evolving artistic journey. Each painting serves as a testament to his ability to balance technique and emotion, resulting in abstract compositions that feel deeply personal yet universally resonant. His work speaks to the expressive potential of colour and form, inviting the viewer to interpret and engage with each piece on a sensory level.
By pushing the limits of abstraction, Drapell has developed a style that is unmistakably his own. His paintings do not simply exist on the canvas; they command attention, asking the viewer to pause and consider the interplay of texture, structure, and depth. His innovative approach sets him apart, and his work continues to influence and inspire both emerging and established artists alike.
As you explore this exhibition, take the time to step closer and observe the intricate details that define Joseph Drapell’s work. His paintings are more than just visual experiences—they are moments of artistic exploration, inviting you to immerse yourself in the world of abstraction and discover something new with each viewing.
A Collector's Choice, Joseph Drapell's Mystery, 2022 is beautifully replicated on the label of the newly launch Aesthete, 2020 by 13th Street Winery. Embossed relief to create the textures that Drapell's paintings are known for. A great way to have a Drapell in your home, while supplies last. Limited run.
We invite you to visit the John Mann Gallery and engage with the work of this remarkable artist. Whether you are a longtime admirer of abstract painting or new to Drapell’s work, this exhibition provides an opportunity to experience the power of colour, movement, and innovation in a fresh and immersive way.
