Paul Hartel

Art Critique by Circle Foundation of the Arts

Paul Hartel is an accomplished artist with an extensive presence in prominent exhibitions across the United States and Europe. Educated at Fairleigh Dickinson University and Ithaca College, he holds advanced degrees in arts and has pursued specialized studies in modern and contemporary art at the Museum of Modern Art, NYC. His artistic achievements are further enriched by certifications in anatomy for artists and techniques such as dry point and monoprint. Hartel’s dedication to art has earned him international recognition, including the American Art Award, the World Art Award, and the Collector’s Vision International Art Award. 

Hartel’s body of work spans abstract, neo-expressionist, and art brut styles, executed in diverse mediums such as oil, acrylic, pastels, and charcoal. His practice focuses on the raw energy of uninhibited creativity, exploring themes of the “inner child” and social commentary through a spontaneous, unfiltered process. Over the years, his career has been marked by an impressive array of exhibitions at venues like the Florence Biennale, Art Basel, and MADS Art Gallery. Hartel’s works have not only been sought after by private collectors but have also found resonance within public and corporate collections. 

In pieces such as “August” and “Fashion Windows,” Hartel’s signature aesthetic is evident—dynamic compositions filled with vibrant, intersecting lines, bold color contrasts, and layers of expressive detail. These works evoke a dialogue between personal introspection and broader societal narratives. Echoing the improvisational energy of Jean-Michel Basquiat and the emotional depth of Cy Twombly, Hartel’s art bridges the gap between abstraction and raw figuration. The layered approach, combining text, imagery, and gestural strokes, serves as a visual diary, deeply rooted in art brut’s ethos of honesty and immediacy. What sets Paul Hartel apart is his ability to channel a visceral emotional intensity into his work while maintaining a sophisticated, layered narrative. His pieces not only provoke thought but also invite viewers into a space of emotional and intellectual engagement. Hartel’s contributions to contemporary art lie in his ability to merge spontaneity with profound reflection, creating a body of work that is both dynamic and deeply resonant.