Flow + Textured Abstract Compositions
I came to what I call my flow abstracts through an experimental process of making abstract paintings by layering different hues and intensities of light. I decided to modify them by pouring paints on them while moving the canvas or hardboard surfaces about to get modified shapes and thicknesses from that paint, and then working the outcome with various painting, drawing, texturing and other mixed media overlays. These paintings are influenced by music, most often including classical, symphonic music, and American jazz, although sometimes folk and even rock are an inspiration that stimulates my creative intuition. My approach is also strongly influenced by many artists, living and dead, including colour field painters and, most notably the late American abstract expressionist, Paul Jenkins. I was overwhelmed by Jenkins work. Later I discovered the work of Betty Ridgway, who was herself heavily influenced by Jenkins, and Elba Alvarez, as well as several others. In contrast to the works of these wonderful artists, my approach tends to involve far less pouring and more guided manual colour sweeps with traditional brushes, foam brushes and take-away rags. They also typically involve texturing and finishing applications with other media. Both experimentation and the ideas of several mixed media painters have given me ideas for incorporating other materials into these paintings.
Most of these paintings are recently completed or they have been around for a while but they have been hung on our walls at home for our own decorative purposes. As with children, there is a time for them to leave home, however.
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