A Bridge to Cross (2009) 8 x 10 in. encausticOur aesthetic in art creation is the sum of all our experiences and interests. When I go to my studio I often just let things happen. I am much more about the process and the materials than I am about detailed planning. I trust that my intuition will lead me in the right direction. I often start work based on something that might not be considered a good starting place by some artists. My connections grow as I create, things become clear. This work is a good example of how I operate.
I began this piece at the encaustic workshop in August . Originally it was just the bottom section which was a practice board exploring layered colour, scraping back and discovering the properties of metallic encaustic when used with solid colours. In other words there was no big plan. I was very pleased with the effect I created, and in retrospect realized how it mimicked some of the colour schemes I saw in my travels in Europe especially Italy. The lusciousness of gold cannot be denied and survives in my memory. Interesting because I prefer silver not gold.
After several weeks, I created the top section while experimenting with sheer fabric with some flocking on it. I developed a whole process of building up colours and layers to create this patterning reminiscent of fabrics I saw in Venice. Things were shaping up . I now had two parts that I loved. I place them together and started We are Neighbours discussed in the previous post. My head was in a whole other realm when I worked on that. It was developed with intent from the word go. While cleaning up, I saw the two practice pieces on my table having different patterns but with many similarities. I looked at them with the thoughts behind We are Neighbours - about the walls we build around ourselves as individuals and countries. About choosing to dwell on differences when we should be focusing on similarities. We all have bridges to cross .
I began this piece at the encaustic workshop in August . Originally it was just the bottom section which was a practice board exploring layered colour, scraping back and discovering the properties of metallic encaustic when used with solid colours. In other words there was no big plan. I was very pleased with the effect I created, and in retrospect realized how it mimicked some of the colour schemes I saw in my travels in Europe especially Italy. The lusciousness of gold cannot be denied and survives in my memory. Interesting because I prefer silver not gold.
After several weeks, I created the top section while experimenting with sheer fabric with some flocking on it. I developed a whole process of building up colours and layers to create this patterning reminiscent of fabrics I saw in Venice. Things were shaping up . I now had two parts that I loved. I place them together and started We are Neighbours discussed in the previous post. My head was in a whole other realm when I worked on that. It was developed with intent from the word go. While cleaning up, I saw the two practice pieces on my table having different patterns but with many similarities. I looked at them with the thoughts behind We are Neighbours - about the walls we build around ourselves as individuals and countries. About choosing to dwell on differences when we should be focusing on similarities. We all have bridges to cross .
10 comments:
Margaret - this work is inspiring! It immediately drew me in and allowed my eye to wander below, above, and across the bridge. The textures are wonderful and the underlying meaning is poignant. Kudos!
good connection between the top and bottom and consequently good connection to your theme-- sometimes having some idea or content and then experimenting can produce the best results.
Thanks both for your comments. I can't seem to get over the feeling of being a fake when work develops this way. Part of the reason is so few people actually discuss their process from start to finish.
Now if I could just take better photos, everything would be perfect. I have so many articles about this, but never practice any of it. My camera isn't the problem - it's me.
The texture is wonderful and the softness combined. Nice
This is a beautiful piece...sounds like you are enjoying encaustic!
Aaah, very nice! I've been looking at the enlarged photo and it is so rich and exciting.
This pieces flows well. The colours are beautiful. I find that not thinking and letting the creativity just take you, works well in most cases and certainly in this one.
Encaustic is something I consider from time to time but haven't done anything about it. Perhaps a class will appear one of these days and I'll have a chance to explore it more.
Jeanette,
I happen to know classes will be coming up in the St. John's area this summer. I'll keep you posted.
Margaret: Love your encaustic works. This painting reminds me of an Italian tapestry. I am attracted to this color pallet too. I prefer silver over gold as well but there is no denying the warmth you get from golds! Looking forward to seeing more of your encaustic work.
Thanks Alicia. I appreciate your compliment because I love your work. I feel like such a newbie in encaustic.
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