Painting with Intention

Greetings everyone,

As a painter, I have a choice to paint in many different styles from Realism to Impressionism, Semi-Abstraction to pure Abstraction. All can be very beautiful and each is a valid approach. I have gone down several avenues before finding the voice that resonates with my aesthetic. What attracts me? Among other things, the color palette, abstract backgrounds and thick paint application of modern Russian Impressionists. I wish to emulate the simplicity of design and linear qualities of Asian art, and on occasion, I incorporate linear marks, similar to calligraphy, to balance a composition. I have always admired Turner’s paintings for their light filled surfaces. Similarly, I respect Cezanne, who considered himself an Impressionist, but well beyond his brethren in style, as his dabs of paint show form and strong color. All of the above have influenced my painting style.

Beyond Artistic Influencers

My paintings capture my initial impressions and access my feelings toward the natural world and humanity. I convey the essence, a deeper reality, as seen through my artistic eyes and my imagination. Including some degree of reality for orientation, I eliminate and simplify my compositions while painting rather loosely over a toned canvas. My quest to capture light and how the light affects the surrounding environment, can be the soul of my painting, while leaving some mysterious places for a path to viewer interpretation. Frequently these mysterious places are in the painted atmosphere. I encourage myself to paint with the freedom and fluidity I felt as a child gliding over ice on my figure skates, leaving unique marks that only I have created.

As a painter, I must negotiate the delicate balance between technical skills and my vision and interpretation. Some of these painterly skills are good composition, proper placement of the center of interest, good color and value choices, use of hard and soft edges, as well as allowing for the viewer’s eye movement throughout the painting as well as rest places.

Artistic Evolution

My paintings are constantly evolving through my conscious intent not to be afraid to experiment. And a willingness to enter into less familiar territory. Having a freer attitude opens me to new possibilities. Some time ago, I took the time to write down my desired painting direction. A personal statement about what I wish to accomplish, my intent, has been helpful in developing my voice. In carefully considering intention, it provides me with direction for future work. Furthermore, it enables me to paint more consistently, no matter what the subject matter.

Getting in touch with my creativity, I paint what is unique to me that I can share with my audience. If you are a new painter, or a painter in search of a new direction, you might consider writing an intention statement about what you wish your paintings to reflect. Indeed, I find mine to be a constant reminder of my desired artistic path forward. If you are an art admirer, a friend, a collector, I hope this newsletter helps you understand my artistic approach.

If you are a new painter, or a painter in search of a new direction, you might consider writing an intention statement about what you wish your paintings to reflect.

Below you will find three of my newest oils done in 2021. Click on the images to read a short description of each.

Please feel free to leave comments about the newsletter or art. Feedback is welcome.

Stay well dear friends and family,      

Elaine