These works on paper are exploratory. I experiment on
this scale as
I search for new ways to treat my larger three dimensional painted
constructions. The materials I use on my larger works are rather
unforgiving, so I use these smaller flat works to play on before
attacking each larger painting. This allows me to pursue whatever
painterly interests engross me at the moment. I find this freedom to
be a requirement for growth.
I use vivid color and unconventional materials. I build a surface to
paint on with sand and cut up photocopies glued to watercolor paper.
I add layers of transparent and opaque oil paint, to create a strong
illusion of three dimensions. The real texture of the sand contrasts
with the illusionistic texture of the extremely enlarged halftone dots
of the photocopies. The contradictory layers and contrasting glossy
and gritty surfaces create a sense of oscillation and movement. The
bright colors at once emerge and recede, as the collaged and painted
shapes seem to wheel and float. With so many things going on at
once, I want the viewer to have a feeling they are watching the
paintings rather than looking at them.
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