Monday, January 30, 2012

By the Sea

*
"By the Sea," mixed media and distressed paint (30” x 30”) January 28, 2012

By the sea, Mr. Todd, that's the life I'll covet,
By the sea, Mr. Todd, ooh, I know you'd love it!
You and me, Mr. T, we could be alone
In a house that we'd almost own,
Down by the sea!*1

Mixed media distressed Painting is a technique that demonstrates a history in each and every artwork because of the many layers of paint that hide, obfuscate and disclose laminated items and text.*2 The blurred history in this particular painting demonstrates the possibility of parallel historical outcomes. In one we have the sense to keep our clean water and save all life on this planet. In the other we destroy our clean water, and all life on earth. At the same time I have always been in love with bright colors, the colors of life. That infatuation with intense color imbues this painting with optimism not always felt. On the surface, this is a confident work that displays the success I feel in my own life and work. However, lurking immediately below that facade is the not so well hidden presbyopic vision of human recklessness.


Notes

* Upon seeing the painting in the blog, I’ve decided it isn’t quite done. I’ve got to do some damage to that boat in the middle. ☺

*1 Sweeny Todd The Musical, Lyrics (1979) http://broadwaymusicalhome.com/shows/sweeneytodd.htm

*2 There is no link in Google for distressed painting in fine art. I very much doubt that I am the only person on earth using the technique in the creation of fine art. Never the less, all the links I found were for commercial processes, and/or craft products and techniques.

1 comment:

Betsy Grant said...

Enjoy your uniqueness. I've always considered it to be a compliment when I'm the only one doing something in a particular creative format. I like your work, and enjoy it's originality!