Acts of Desperation

The marks of full desperation usually leads to deeper, richer, unpredictable elements.

Those moments when I just a have no idea what's going to happen ends up pushing things a little further than I would, feeling completely in control and pleased at the time.

That which is still standing

What remains after the things that take place on the canvas, breeds it's own kind of deep harmony beyond preconception.

Oil on panel 24" x 30" 4/2009

Reworking

While reworking paintings, I am beginning to see the accumulation of time that bears the complex flux of nature, strung by the immovable grid which somehow holds it together.

Watteau's theatrical fantasies are born from evening strolls in the park at Luxembourg Palace. The compositions are taken from sketches from nature. His paintings are what I consider to be an outdoor dramatic scene, while not being considered as a landscape.

Titian "Religion Succored By Spain"

I love the way the central activity of the Turk sinking into the water seems to be integrated with the scenery, yet still can be a focal point. Originally that was Neptune with his proud horses along with Venus and Minerva in front. I like how the power of composition can be retained even when the artist clothed them and changed labels. There's a wonderful transition to the figurative drama from the distant background with the haze of the smoke on the left.

Reason

My only initial hope each time, is to paint to the point where my reason is abandoned. Only then does the harmony begin to reflect the soul.