In nature light makes the color, and in painting color makes the light. My approach to painting is generally characterized as Tonalism. If you're wondering what Tonalism is, you are not alone. Tonalism isn't as well known as Impressionism, Expressionism, Realism, Abstract or most any other defined art movement. Tonalism emphases color, line and shape without narrative as a way of communicating visual harmony and spirituality. By working within a carefully chosen palette of closely related colors, Tonalists aspire to emulate musicality and inspire contemplation. By arranging color and forms, they believed that landscapes could evoke emotion and suggest deep, cosmic harmonies. I strive to convey and invoke a sense of calmness and serenity for the viewer because that is what I want for my own environment. I find influence and beauty in the everyday atmospheric conditions; sunrises and sunsets, the misty rain or the sweltering heat.
I began loving and appreciating art at an early age. I spent most of my childhood in South Carolina or just over the border in North Carolina in rural or suburban surroundings. As a child I adored spending time exploring nature. I studied graphic design in college then worked almost 30 years in different aspects of corporate America. While I enjoyed most of that time, I yearned to go back to what I was meant to do, paint and create images to share.
My favorite paint saints are Mark Rothko, Georgia O'Keeffe, John Henry Twachtman, Birge Harrison, Frits Thaulow, and George Inness.
A quick note on quality. I use high quality professional colors and archival canvas and linen on originals. For giclees I utilize a fine art color lab that specializes in prints on canvas, metal and fine art papers and are Hahnemuhle Certified. Like Steve Jobs said - "Quality is more important than quantity. One home run is much better than two doubles."
3 quotes by Marc Chagall ...
"If I create from the heart, nearly everything works; if from the head, almost nothing."
For me painting isn't about getting the exact image of reality on canvas. I paint to show what I feel about what I'm seeing and/or sensing. If I wanted an exact image, a photo would work well. With painting I hope to show what I'm feeling so that the observer can feel something too.
"All colors are the friends of their neighbors and the lovers of their opposites."
I'm fascinated by colors and this quote helps define or explain color. On the color wheel, colors that are beside each other (neighbors) are called analogous and tend to create harmonious, soothing combinations. Colors that are opposites or complementary creates vibration that is more energetic.
"When color is right, form is right. Color is everything, color is vibration like music; everything is vibration."
I try to be cognizant of vibrations because I think vibrations both affect and effect most everything. Vibrations, energy, frequency; what do these things have to do with art? I don't know the total answer but I do know that to have people and things around you that bring you joy or peace or happiness or whatever emotions you are seeking is one of the best gift you give yourself or anyone else.