Artist Profile: David Ohlerking, the Mobile Painter

David Ohlerking is not your typical artist. Instead of a fancy studio and expensive equipment, he drives around in a 1997 Crown Vic that has been painted by children for the last 7 years. But don’t let the unconventional setting fool you – Ohlerking is a skilled and dedicated painter who captures the essence of his surroundings in vibrant and evocative artworks.

Ohlerking’s approach to painting is just as unconventional as his mode of transportation. He sets up his painting equipment wherever he finds a good parking spot, and paints the view from there. Sometimes, he also does quick sketches of people who hold still for 15 minutes. The result is a collection of artworks that capture the unique character of the places and people he encounters on his travels.

One of the things that makes Ohlerking’s work stand out is his fascination with reality. He sees painting as a way to create 2 dimensional estimates of the world around him, and he is fascinated by the fact that these estimates can sometimes ring true like the real thing does. To achieve this effect, Ohlerking starts with a quick sketch of the subject, usually with paint from the grey leftover paint sludge jar. Then, he repaints it one color at a time, weaving the colors together until the artwork comes to life.

Ohlerking’s process is not without its challenges, however. He admits that he sometimes gets too locked up inside the painting, and that he talks to the people who show up to distract himself. But this is also what makes his paintings so interesting – they capture not only the visual details of the subject, but also the energy and personality of the moment.

Despite his unconventional approach, Ohlerking has gained a following of fans who appreciate his unique perspective and talent. His artworks have been exhibited in galleries and art shows around the country, and he has even sold a few pieces to collectors. But for Ohlerking, the most important thing is not the recognition or the sales – it’s the joy of painting and the connection he feels to the world around him.

In a world where art can sometimes seem distant and inaccessible, David Ohlerking’s mobile paintings are a refreshing reminder that creativity can happen anywhere, and that the most important thing is to stay true to your own vision.