The subject of art is art and the history of art. And all contemporary artists are in a constant conversation with artists that have come before, even though many are not consciously aware of it. I know that my artwork is in constant conversation with many artists that I have admired and respected; or hated and disagreed with, often not quietly but in heated debate.

I would name Gustaz Klimpt, Kokashka, Van Gogh, Cezanne, Matisse, Modigliani, Picasso, Hans Hoffman, Jackson Pollack, Sam Francis, Gerhard Richter, and Robert Rauschenberg - and the list goes on.

People who know art and art history recognize the influence without it being spoken; but those who do not know, miss the references, the nuance of purpose in each work.

Our education system should promote, inspire, and nurture the arts and all forms of creativity in order to foster a vibrant and exciting culture into 21st century.

Bruce Thacker's art on the Web