A realist painter who uses the term “urban voyeurism” to describe his approach, Karel Funk creates portraits of subjects at odd close-up angles, as though they were standing next to you on a crowded train or bus. Born in Winnipeg, Manitoba—where he still lives—Funk studied at Columbia University. Combining an interest in the Old Masters with skateboard fashions, Funk has become known for polished portrayals of people in hooded jackets. While readying for his latest show at Chelsea’s 303 Gallery, the artist spoke about his new paintings and why he seems to focus so much on outerwear