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I have always enjoyed Shanks' work and had the occasion to see a demo by him in Allentown, PA last fall (01). The demo was fair and he offered virtually no comment. All was forgiven however, by the fantastic display of his work on hand. The richness, sublety, and creativity are extraordinary. You see things not evident in reproductions such as an understated suggestion of viens running just below warm skin tones. And he doesn't work by formula. It's special. He is not afraid to attempt the unusual and difficult in order to produce very "original" work.
He also conducted a workshop which I was unable to attend but you can see in his paintings a variety and richness that would not be found using most traditional palettes.
I also think his palette could be a disaster in the hands of the inexperienced. Or should we learn on a larger keyboard?
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