These paintings are abstractions on floral images. The flowers can vaguely be seen in a surface that has been blurred to a point where the image is still visible but if it were made any softer the image would disappear and you would end up with something more monochrome. Monochrome paintings are especially interesting in relation to the history of contemporary art that has step by step removed imagery, form, line, shape altogether from painting and left us with essays on shade and colour. The monochrome style was revived in South Korean painting in the last half century, a school of painting that is known as Dansaekwa. I have tried to approach this school while also maintaining my interest in the tradition of floral painting. Essentially, I have tried to tone down the harsh colours of acrylic paint and make them more like watercolours, but still keep the characteristics of the original paint. The result is pleasantly soft and lush and the paintings reward close viewing since there are many more colours in them than is immediately apparent, and there is much more going on in the shadows.
"Sakura" mm on canvas 36" x 36"
"Syrian Roses" mm on canvas 36" x 36"
"soft bouquet" mm on canvas 36" x 36"
"old faithful" mm on canvas, 24" x 36"
"ruby grass" mm on canvas 36" x 36"
Exhibition history
"Old Faithful" exhibited along with a series of other abstract florals at St. Mary's Hospital, Sechelt, B.C. April 1-29, 2019.
Sakura" exhibited in the group exhibit "Illusions" at the 1710 Gallery, Tsawwassen, B.C., May 5 - June 5, 2024.