Scapes
I chose “Scapes” as a title for this body of work for a specific reason. Its meaning is ambiguous and does not easily stand on its own aside from its use in botany and entomology. “Scape” is part of words describing the environment as in land-, sea- or cityscape. It can also describe seeking refuge as in “escape.” These multifaceted aspects speak directly to where these paintings have led me, a refugium for an artist transitioning from figurative to more abstract subjects, using an increasingly dense web of brush strokes.
Painting landscapes was never a particular focus of mine, but I would not describe it as an unnecessary detour either. By layering paint in a more measured, systematic way as compared to merely throwing it onto the canvas, it opened up new horizons for me.
I must admit that standing in front of Monet’s large scale water lily paintings continues to be a favorite past time of mine. I harbor a fascination for some paintings that masterfully capture light as it reflects on water, or mirrors its surroundings. I would not describe it as proximity to impressionist or romanticist ideas but an urge to observe our environment, and translate these inspirations into abstract art that strives to boil it down to its essence.