Wednesday, March 2, 2011

#1: Thirty Studies

first of all, i will be posting some images of my studies soon, i just have a scanner that is not functioning properly, but it will be fixed.

so, to begin. completing the studies was not a difficult task for me, all i did was start sketching things outside, people that interested me. at the beginning, i did not have an idea of my theme for the semester's work, but through my sketches i was able to develop an idea. i basically came to a theme of loneliness/isolation, but without the use of any figures. i knew i wanted my work to look more contemporary, so that would be another important element. after creating a specific study (number 19, i believe) i immediately felt like everything had come together (photo coming soon, i promise); it had the loneliness, the contemporary vibe, and the interesting perspective i was looking for.

some questions i developed along the way:
-how is the actual paint language going to help with the idea of loneliness?
-is it possible to keep an isolated and lonely mood while utilizing bright colors?
-do i want the viewer to feel slightly uncomfortable while viewing my work, and if so, how will i accomplish that?
-what aesthetics can i apply to my work that will make it appear contemporary? what does "contemporary" look like?

i've been looking at various artists for guidance. Edward Hopper has been very influential in terms of his use of light and space to create a sense of isolation.

"Sun in an Empty Room" by Edward Hopper

"Room By the Sea" Edward Hopper

along with Hopper, i've been closely examining Echo Eggebrecht and Dexter Dalwood's work in terms of their use of color and clean lines.

"Snake in the Grass" by Echo Eggebrecht


"Year One" by Echo Eggebrecht

"Room 100, Chelsea Hotel" by Dexter Dalwood

"Sharon Tate's House" by Dexter Dalwood

lastly, i also looked at Hurvin Anderson for his use of paint application.

"Peter's Sitters 3" by Hurvin Anderson

"Afrosheen" by Hurvin Anderson