Los Angeles-based Casper Brindle, a contemporary disciple of the 1960s and 70s Light and Space generation whose paintings explore the expressive possibilities of color, light and form and range from spectacularly technicolor to subtly monochromatic – and whose work has been exhibited across the United States and internationally – plumbs his own psychological depths only to discover what makes him love work and life.
What historical art figure would you like to have lunch with and why? That is tough question, there are so many. I think from a theory point of view, I’d go with Rothko and from a curious point of view I’d go with Van Gogh.
What did you purchase with the proceeds from your first sale? I’d have to go back to the 80s and find that brain cell, but would guess more art materials and a night out with friends.
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What words or phrases do you overuse? I use the word “unbelievable” a lot and tend to over use the phrase “orale pues” [say it, then].
How do you know when a work is finished? Usually when a work is close to being finished I will leave it up in the studio for a few days and let it simmer. If after a few days if think it needs more work, I will get back into it.
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When and where were you happiest? When I’m spending time with my daughters anywhere/anytime and smelling sycamore trees and feeling mild Santa Ana winds.
What is your most treasured possession? My iPhone camera roll.
Where is your ideal escape destination? I’m a big fan of Kauai and Punta Mita, Mexico. Either works for me.
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What’s the worst survival job you’ve ever had? Being a waiter was definitely the most stressful job I’ve ever had. I have huge respect for restaurant workers.
What TV series from your youth best describes your approach to life? The Muppets. Creative, crazy and fun, but with a moral/kind through line.
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If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? I wish I could wake up happy and carefree, ready to enjoy the day. I’ve never been a morning person.
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What is your most treasured memory? I have many- I will go with being young with no worries for $400.
What makes you smile? My daughters.
What makes you cry? Losing loved ones and cruelty…and the occasional sad movie.
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What is your go-to drink when you toast to a sale? These days, probably Diet Coke. When I was younger, a shot of Jack Daniels and a beer.
After an all-nighter, what’s your breakfast of champions? Haha. It’s been a while since I’ve had an all nighter, but I’d say two eggs over medium, hash browns well done, and sourdough toast.
Who inspires you? I think inspiration comes in all forms, people, nature, science and I could go on and on. If I had to pick a person who inspired me, I would say my mother.
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What’s your best quality? Spending too much money on sneakers.
What’s your biggest flaw? Spending too much money on sneakers;-)
What is your current state of mind? Hopeful.
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What do you consider your greatest achievement? My children, they amaze me everyday.
If you were to die and come back as a person or thing, what would it be? I’m a water person, so maybe a dolphin, but I also like the idea of being a butterfly.
Cover image: photo by Mika Cho; all other images by Rob Brander at the William Turner Gallery. Casper Brindle’s Exhibition, Hypermodality, is on view at Luckman Fine Arts Complex at Cal State LA, September 29 – November 19, 2022.
Visit the artist at his website, on Instagram, and on Facebook.
