It’s tempting to call Dennis Hopkins an “engineer-turned-artist.” But in fact, Hopkins was born an artist, it just took him until later in life to fully realize his passion.

In high school, Hopkins discovered he had a gift for technical illustration. “Back in the ’70s, way before computers, if you were going to design some kind of widget or device, you had to draw it by hand,” he explains. This skill earned him a job as a draftsman and prompted him to pursue engineering school and a career in technology.

“Although my career path was marching on the left side of the brain, something kept whispering from the right side that there were other possibilities in life,” he says. “Anytime I could squeeze in an elective class in college, it would be in the arts.”

Hopkins went on to launch an engineering company in his 30s, which he sold a few years ago, giving him more time to pursue art. For the past two years, he’s been an artist-in-residence at Auburn’s General Gomez Arts (generalgomez.com), where he rents a studio. An acrylic painter, Hopkins enjoys working on large canvases. “I would much prefer to measure my paintings in feet instead of inches,” he says.

How did you realize your artistic passion?

It came to a boil about six years ago. A local professional artist, Traci Owens, owns a studio and gallery on Lincoln Way in Auburn. I would often stroll by, gaze into the window, and marvel at her work. I was struck by her style and composition. One day I gathered the courage to ask her if she gave lessons. She said yes, but asked me why I liked her art. I said her figurative art was striking. The colors and layers were so vivid and resolved. Her art always triggers an emotion. Traci has been an important mentor and friend, always providing support and guidance. I tend to think being an artist is something you’re born to do. There’s a yearning to communicate observations through some type of medium.

Joker

Tell us about your time at General Gomez Arts.

“The Gomez” houses a variety of artists, including painters, potters, and sculptors. It’s been a wonderful learning experience being exposed to so many different creatives. The gallery also serves as an events center, hosting plays, rallies, political functions, and musical performances. Tibetan Monks take up residence each year for a variety of cultural presentations.

The Rebuttal

Where do you find inspiration?

I’m constantly on the lookout for unique images that could inspire a composition. There’s a constant conflict with my art choices. Much of the subject matter I’d like to produce may be disturbing or dark to some. It’s always a balance between painting my passion and producing something the public would want on their walls.  

Taylor

How would you describe your style?

I could be categorized as a figurative artist. Over the years I’ve developed a surreal style to my figures. My influences include Salvador Dali, Pablo Picasso, Tamara de Lempicka, Georgy Kurasov, and Vladimir Kush. I often paint celebrities, mostly related to music. It’s very challenging to paint the figure of a well-known person. It’s also quite gratifying when people immediately identify the figure. Celebrity imagery puts a lot of pressure on my skill set. It’s also the most marketable work I’ve done.  

The Proposal

What appeals to you about acrylic paint?

I like to throw a lot of paint at the canvas and dry it quickly. I often paint with a hair dryer in hand, drying the paint as I work. I’m not afraid to paint over something several times until I’m satisfied. Painting with plastic (acrylic) is also very forgiving to your environment. Oils are pretty messy and odorous. Landlords are much more receptive to acrylics.  

Hopeful Melancholy

Samantha Fish

The Last Pharaoh

What do you hope viewers experience through your art?
My first hope is that they take time to absorb it all. The common thread to all artists is a certain narcissism. We’re all looking for a response or appreciation of our work. It’s nice when someone walks up to a painting and says, “I love it.” But it’s more gratifying when someone takes time to examine and question the piece—even if they don’t like it. Some of my most memorable responses are from those who have said, “I hate it!” Hate is a pretty strong response! On more than one occasion, I’ve gotten, “I love it, but I would never hang it on my wall.” I also paint nudes and have been censored several times. An artist friend told me if you haven’t been censored, you’re not making progress; it’s part of the process, I suppose.  

Do you create other kinds of art?

Painting is my first artistic passion, but music is a close second. I’ve pursued the trials and tribulations of bass playing for many years. My current musical journey has led to jazz. After years of classic rock and blues, it’s a whole new vibe. I think it’s important to always keep putting yourself out there. Whether it’s at an art show or on a musical stage, people want to feel a connection; be it visual or audio, it’s all good vibration. 

by Jennifer Maragoni
Artist photo by Jyo Bhamidipati ©stylereadersmedia. Photos courtesy of Dennis Hopkins.