Certain images may inspire us to wonder, to ponder, to dream. Such are the works of Joseph Bixler. There is often an imposing aura of fantasy about these pictures, a peculiar sort of realism defying time and place. Whether by chance or by design, these images transcend reality in a unique and provocative way, rewarding our patient scrutiny. 

The work shows a pronounced affinity with the past, in technique as well as in subject matter. The paintings are done in oil on canvas or wood panel. Mr. Bixler normally employs a variant of the ancient "bistre" method, in which images are painted and modeled in monochrome before color is applied by glazing.  In glazing, successive layers of oil paint, rendered transparent by the use of a varnish medium, are applied to the monochrome subjects.  Depending upon the colors used, the degree of transparency, and the number of layers applied, the image gradually assumes a deep, luminous, and nuanced coloration.

Mr. Bixler resides and paints in Los Angeles. He received his formal art training from the Art Institute of Chicago.