Artist's Statement

Following a long period of enjoying the work of others, I began to paint just a few years ago. So, my work is in its early stages. What has brought me to this point is a curiosity to create pleasing things, similar to much of the art that I had observed and enjoyed over the years. I have limited formal training in the arts, so I approach my work largely unencumbered with expectations and a desire to learn and explore.

As I begin my exploration of materials, techniques, and methods on a steep learning curve, my early work ranges in style. I have recently sought to expose myself to classwork and additional resources to broaden my perspective and become increasingly self-aware. I approach these activities with great interest and passion and look forward to where the process takes me and my work.

I am interested and motivated to create a feeling or a mood, rather than to create imagery. My work is in the spirit of Abstract, and there is limited intention to create specific imagery. The influences on my work are generally from the Abstract Expressionism and Color Field Painting movements. I want to create pieces that evoke positive feelings that maybe provide a little bit of a tickle to the eyes of the viewer. This is accomplished through the use of color and how colors are mixed, blended, layered and blurred.

While the pieces appear to have limited specific imagery or ostensible subject matter, color is used as primary tool to create visual impact. Color, and blending of color, creates depth and complexity. Color choice adds richness and interest. The more depth that is achieved in the use of color, including changes in tone, transparency and opacity, the richer the result. The more labor and creativity in the layering and the mixing of hues, the more complex the outcome.

The methods and techniques that are utilized include layering of colors, sometimes different hues of the same color. The thickness of the paint layers are typically varied, which creates a topical dimension to the pieces, as does the use of multiple application tools and devices. Sometimes colors are removed through sanding or are partially covered over as part of the in-the-moment process of creating the image. These methods and techniques are employed to create character and depth in the finished pieces.

Future work will likely include more play with color, more creative blending and layering of colors, and further development of the sophistication and nuances of trying to bring forth the images that are incubating in my mind. More use of oil paint is a way to further my exploration. Blending of colors will continue to be relied upon to bring these images to life.

Classwork

Painting Materials and Methods, Instructor: Rebecca George, Fall 2015, SAIC
New Directions in Painting, Instructor: Meghan Euker, Spring 2016, SAIC
Painting Materials and Methods, Instructor:  Erin Washington, Fall 2016, SAIC