Abdul Mati Klarwein: visionary surrealist artist

I have been fan of Klarwein's art going back to the 60's. Having seen his painting Annunciation on Santana's Abraxas album, I was hooked on his amazing visions. His artwork was associated with the psychedelic art of the 60's. In the 1976 bought a book of his artwork God Jokes: the art of Abdul Mati Klarwein for $4.95. A copy today costs from $50-$100 plus dollars. I won't sell mine! I rank him up there with my favorite artist Salvador Dali for his technichal realism and surrealistic vision.

Klarwein studied with surrealist artist Salvador Dali and visionary painter Ernst Fuchs. His style reflects both influences. His international and multicultural experience are also evident in his work in his landscapes, dieties, and iconography. Though raised Jewish, he changed his name to "Abdul" in the late 50s as a witness against Jewish and Muslim hostilities.

Klarwein is known for his album covers, like Santana's Abraxis and Miles Davis' Bitches Brew among many others. The detail on his paintings is amazing. He paints every single rock on a landscape and creates ethereal light with his colors. I'm still hooked on Klarwein's artwork.