Sunday, July 12, 2009

The Paintings from HELL




I have plenty of failed canvases and paintings on paper piled in a corner of the studio. I ought to get rid of them, really. YET ... what if some day I figure it out? Or run out of canvases or paper and need to make palimpsests or something like that?


Thank heaven for gesso!

Of all the failed pieces, these two, which are now just about finished, have given me false starts, fits and many opportunities to loudly say the "F-word."


A month ago, the abstract forest was a representational piece featuring a girl standing in a tree that overlooked a stream. It is now a multi-layered piece that I've been calling "Between Time in the Forest."


"Harvest" was a field of kites that just never took off for me. It is called Harvest because of the color and because the writing that forms the bridge down the right side contains quotes about creativity and ideas.

Both are experimental, collaged mixed-media pieces. Acrylic, India ink, homemade and found papers, and calligraphy are the ingredients as are, at least for the abstract forest MANY MANY hours of process.


Even if I decide these almost-done pieces are as shitty as the paintings they cover, I did not fail. I saw them through - for better or for worse.


I am open to your views about these canvases. I love constructive criticism. Perhaps, you see something I do not?

They remain on easel for the time being. One of the things I have a mind to do is place a semi-transparent moon -goldish in color- on "Harvest."

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

Christine, I am trying to make a few blog rounds, have been missing out on lots. Something about the abstract forest draws me in, I think it is your use of colors. I need gesso by the 5 gallon bucket! Look forward to seeing what you decide with both pieces. Debbie