Ivan Fortushniak received his B.F.A. in painting in 1998 from the Kendall College of Art & Design, Grand Rapids, Mich., and his M.F.A. in painting in 2000 from the University of Cincinnati, Ohio.
He has shown his work in a variety of venues in Grand Rapids, Mich., including the LaFontsee Gallery, the Grand Rapids Art Museum and Gallery Arcadia. His pieces are also a part of several private collections throughout the Midwest.
"As a painter, my process involves a combination of traditional and unconventional methods, including direct opaque painting and glazing, and burning and scratching," Ivan says. "The bulk of my work juxtaposes water towers, smokestacks, and Boeing aircraft, with landscapes inspired by George Inness, Winslow Homer and Albert P. Ryder."

Recently, he has been investigating the psychological implications that pop and historical icons have played in his nurturing and understanding of life.