Bio
Neil Gainer is a multi-disciplinary artist and musician in the Chicago Metropolitan area. Born in Hammond, Indiana, he grew up between worlds, from the rural lands of Indiana, and the impoverished and forgotten industry-based communities along the South Shore, to the economic center of the Midwest (Chicago.) This disparity in socioeconomic status directly influenced his upbringing and, thus, art practice.

As an Artist
Neil’s work aims to reflect issues affecting this area of the Midwest that remain relevant globally. Having spent his undergraduate years commuting to and from Gary, IN, and Chicago, respectively, these locations and the people in them continue to inspire him to create work that reflects the beauty and the chaos that exist simultaneously within these places.

History plays an integral role in Neil’s work, as he obsessively studies those who laid the foundation for our contemporary concepts of aesthetics, politics, and worldview. This interest in history has become just as important to him as the art itself. Bridging the classical and the contemporary is one facet of an informed future.

Materiality is also crucial to Neil’s practice, which involves, Drawing, Painting, Printmaking, Ceramics and Digital processes. The focus on materials has allowed for the discovery and wonder within the physical process of the work. The catharsis that comes from handling the materials is seen as a joy similar to cooking or reading a book.

As a Musician
Neil began playing music at a young age, taking piano lessons and experimenting with the guitar. Both instruments play an integral part in his musical identity. He joined an experimental rock band in 2016 that helped hone his abilities and live presence; this experience also helped form his interest in the immersive live music experience, with accouterments such as lights, clothing, and merchandise associated with the music. He currently works with longtime collaborator and drummer, Brett Butler on an electronic duo project called GNKO.

Today Neil works to create a transcendental musical experience that highlights musical quality through his weekly radio program, Groove 5, which airs on Lumpen Radio on Tuesdays at 9 AM CST.