To start, could you introduce yourself and share a bit about your artistic journey? 

I was born in Southampton New York 1966. My father was a third generation hunting and fishing guide who instilled in me an intimate knowledge of our local natural environment. Thus, the "barrier beach" of Long Island's South Shore would become a major current running through my work. My father was also a wood sculptor and as a child he taught me the art of wood sculpture. It was this traditional and exacting art form that developed in me a dedication and pension excellence that I’ve carried throughout my life. Eastern Long Island or "the Hamptons" historically has been home to some of the most important and influential artists of the 20th century. That presence, that legacy is something that is pervasive in the local culture, something that I have always felt a strong connection to.  It seemed natural for me to attend School of Visual Arts in New York City to nourish my interests. Aside from The general art education I received there, being immersed in the New York art scene of the mid to late 80s shaped my perspective about art. I returned to east of Long Island further develop my work and was exhibiting locally. It was there that a New York Gallerist spotted my work and offered me a exhibition at his Chelsea gallery. 2001 

Your paintings often seem to explore a mix of realism and abstraction. How would you describe the vibe or feeling you aim to create in your work? 

All my paintings are inspired by my observations of nature. They deal largely with light, color, space, and various natural compositional elements. I do often incorporate realistic or representational imagery as additional elements in an abstract composition.. I see it as multiple paintings occupying the same canvas, but identifying and exploiting the underlying rhythms at play between them. What first inspired you to work with paint, and how has your relationship with this medium evolved over time? I have always drawn and painted, it’s just something I’ve done my whole life.  At the School of Visual Arts I learned manyi techniques that I have expanded on and still use to this day. My processes have evolved and developed over time enabling me to achieve my vision and the signature look of my work. 

Many of your pieces have this mysterious, almost dreamlike quality. Do you find inspiration in dreams, memories, or any other particular place? 

As my paintings are all inspired by my observations of places natural events etc. They are from my memories and experiences, reformed through the prism of paint and technique. 

How do you know when a piece is complete? Is there a specific feeling you wait for? 

In completing a painting I go through the process of what I call "tuning."  Because I think of color akin to notes on a scale, a painting can be in or out of tune.  Compositionally, some things may need to be balanced or shifted. In the end when nothing bothers me about the painting anymore, it’s done. 

If you could give one word to describe the spirit behind your paintings, what would it be, and why? 

Adventurous. In abstract painting I am presented with an immeasurable world of possibility.  In my endeavor to explore that realm, color and form reveal themselves, explained by the nature of creation itself. As I navigate and respond to the information received or imagined the paintings become a physical record of my explorations. Manifestations of my encounters with the infinite.

Jeff Muhs’s art captures the boundless beauty of the natural world while embracing the infinite possibilities of abstraction. His process, guided by memory, light, and an innate sense of adventure, results in work that feels both personal and universal. Discover more about Jeff’s transformative art by visiting Sun Valley Contemporary Gallery, and immerse yourself in the bold and dreamlike worlds he creates.

Check Out All the Pieces by JEFF HERE