Taking Art to Another Dimension BY MELANIE A. CISSONE
“I get much of my inspiration when I’m surfing,” says mixed-media artist Andy Saczynski, who, with wedding and family portrait photographer Ryan Manthey, is creating new works that bring out the best of their respective talents. With layered strokes from a paint-covered brush, Saczynski transforms a Manthey landscape photo into a rich, dimensional work of art that captures the essence of time and place. The sum, in this case, brings all the parts to life.
Seaside Swirls by Ryan Manthey and Andy Saczynski, 60 x 40 inches
Influenced greatly and encouraged by his Niceville High School art teacher, Saczynski was compelled to create art at a young age. He says, “I’ve had it in my mind since third grade.” His teacher, Vivian Komando, guided him through the creation of a portfolio that led to a scholarship to Northwest Florida State College (then known as Okaloosa-Walton Community College or OWCC). He says, “Mrs. Komando gave me awesome confirmation and positive reinforcement.” Komando recalls, “Andy was the type of art student where I couldn’t wait to see what he would do next.” Saczynski also credits the late Arnie Hart, his art instructor in college, with wrangling him away from getting too lost in his own world or too comfy with a particular style. V I E MAGAZINE .COM | 35