The new paintings created for this show are from two distinct bodies of
work which feature abstract imagery, forms, and rhythms that are
defined primarily by the use of line. The "Currents" and "Elysium" series
of paintings are ongoing and continue to evolve. Although they are
different in many ways, all the pieces were executed with basically
the same mediums; encaustic, oil, and collage. With these paintings
the linear composition leads the way and ultimately dictates shape
and form. As well, color plays an important role in determining the
outcome of the finished pieces.
The "Currents" paintings are executed in a much tighter, more formatted
way than the "Elysium" paintings by emphasizing horizontal lines that are
etched into the surface of each work. As the encaustic layers are
gradually worked and burned away, free-form, calligraphic marks<
reveal themselves. The etched lines give the pieces a sense of structure,
movement and formality while the under-lying, abstracted calligraphic
marks create elements of contrast and tension. These pieces reflect my
continued interest in language and communication and how those
entities may manifest themselves graphically.
The "Elysium" paintings are rendered in a much looser application but
the marks are still applied in a linear way much like drawing with paint.
These paintings are layered with a thick build-up of encaustic and oil.
By applying and burning away these mediums the paintings have both
opaque and transparent surface areas that give the pieces a sense of
motion and fluidity. In Greek mythology, Elysium (also known as Elysian
Fields) was the final resting place of the souls of heroic and virtuous
characters. A paradisiacal land of plenty that is associated with the
perception of Heaven.
2008 |
