I can hardly believe that spring is almost here. I'm so excited for the warmer weather and sunnier days ahead. I feel like this year is opening up to new adventures and I'm so ready.
Lately I've been delving back into some heavy abstract expressionist work. Ever since my solo show started, I've been navigating the "what's next" question. Going back to non-objectional work seemed to be the right fit for this moment, and I couldn't be happier.
With the seasons changing, I've been inspired to create work that is freer and more raw. I want to create work that is inspirational and playful and is also filled with visual treasures. Adventure seeking for the eye, so to speak. This is why I've been leaning a little more heavily into collage, acrylic paste, and some experimental techniques that I've been wanting to try for a little while.
For instance, last weekend was really warm out and I had the opportunity to take my painting practice outside and get a little crazy. The ability to use my entire body in an open space and use techniques and tools that I otherwise wouldn't in an enclosed space is so freeing and felt so good. It also produced some cool results:
I'm a firm believer that how you feel when you create translates through the whole painting. It doesn't matter if you completely cover an entire layer and start over. That canvas or paper has been stamped with a certain energy. This is why to me it is essential that I continue practicing freedom and joy in my life because that is what I want to be "stamping" my artwork with. I say this because the energy from the paint session last weekend has carried through this week even as I paint in my studio. I find myself using my whole body more, twirling the paint brush or palette knife in different ways. I find that when I approach these pieces, I feel looser and more enlivened. It truly feels playful.
As I flow through these pieces, I'm drawn to making this a series. I've included some floral imagery as a nod to this life-filled season that we are approaching and have chosen a color palette that is bright and grounded. I've been using more browns and blues with some greens. It feels very springy.
I'm very eager to show off this new series once it's complete and hear what you have to think. If you aren't already on my email list, be sure to sign up! You'll be the first to know about its release.