Opposing Angles, 2009, 12 x 12 inches, egg tempera on panel
Opposing Angles is now finished. I find the geometry of this painting quite satisfying, and hope that the light and color add warmth to what might be seen as a rather severe image. Using a delicate but active brush, I painted a surface that speaks of the artist's hand, but not too loudly. This is one of the most simple compositions I've painted, and points toward my love of minimalist painting, a love clearly evident in my ruglets. I sometimes think that my paintings may become even more spare in the future.
I have a small bit of dissatisfaction: it is not clear enough that the broad triangular plane is not parallel to the picture plane, but is moving forward in space. I worked on that quite a bit, using color and value to bring the front edge forward, but I think that our visual response to the two dimensional design is so strong that it overpowers the spacial design. But maybe you, the viewer, don't see it that way.
The broad triangular plane is balancing that delicate question between pushing out into space at the bottom edge, like a slide with a step at the bottom, and reiterating the two dimensional surface. This creates a great push-pull tension, also with that counter diagonal form disappearing behind it to increase the play of forces. It is a taut, dynamic and highly sophisticated use of pictorial space, addressing the eternal question of flat object vs. illusion of space. It's a slow, intriguing read, unfolding over time. Beautifully done!
ReplyDeleteI second that!
ReplyDeleteI find the painting very satisfying.
thank you! I feel as though I've had a satisfying studio visit.
ReplyDelete