BIOGRAPHY

 

Born in 1936 in the Bronx, NY, Alan Lachman studied at Syracuse University, School of Visual Arts, and the Art Students League of New York. During the course of his 70 years as a fine artist, Lachman has traveled extensively, painting thousands of works throughout the United States and abroad, with a focus and deep love for the American landscape. Throughout his career as a painter, teacher, author, and juror, Lachman has received numerous awards.  He was honored for his lifetime achievements and contributions in American art by “Who’s Who in American Art” (2005-2006). In the ensuing years, Lachman became known for his pastels as well as his oil paintings.  He was honored and received “Best of Show”, “The Joseph Giffuni Memorial Award” presented at the 20th Annual National Exhibition by the Pastel Society of America at the National Arts Club in New York City.  This award is the highest honor bestowed upon any U.S. pastelist annually.  He was further honored as a Director on the Board of Control of the Pastel Society of America and one of the original founders and first instructors of the PSA School for Pastels, which is the only one of its kind in the U.S.  

Lachman achieves unparalleled luminosity and depth in his works by painting on a clear surface developed by the artist himself. Allowing him to paint on both sides, and adhering any medium, this surface brings vitality and a unique physical dimension to his works. Lachman is an artist that seamlessly synthesizes the atmospheric nature of American Impressionism with the expansive and expressive bands of modern and abstract expressionist colorfield painters. His combination of vibrant color, surprise, abstraction and realism create a world of exploration that is present in his ample body of work. 

Lachman’s paintings are represented in numerous prestigious public and private collections and continue to garner the attention of art collectors internationally.

 

 

“AI Lachman is one of a very few artists, another being Wolf Kahn, whose work is fresh and new while remaining true to the traditional values associated with museum quality painting. His use of materials and colorsset him apart as a visionary genius without having to resort to the pitfallof taboo subject matter.”

Peter Bartlow, Gallerist & Archivist, Peter Bartlow Gallery, Chicago, IL

 

“The approach that Al Lachman takes when creating his artwork is a combination made up of thorough academic grounding and fresh, original expression of ideas. His palette ranges from pastel to deep jewel tones. Everything is in motion. At second glance, however, a depth of emotions and social consciousness is revealed. The viewer is gradually made aware of the range of reflective undertones. We come to realize that Lachman has observed and understood the complexities of life, and has skillfully depicted both the joy as well as difficulties that life affords.”

Erika Jaeger-Smith
Associate Curator of Exhibitions
James A. Michener Art Museum