Urban Abstractions

When I first returned to painting after 50 years, I only thought in traditional two dimensions. Yet within a few weeks I felt compelled to try different ways of applying paint that gave the works depth, that created layers and multiple avenues to interpretation. Inevitably I turned to "art papers" (commercial and home made), cardboard, bubble wrap, found materials, and a variety of acrylic mediums, exploring textures, light and color in combination with paint. I love playing with fluid paints that can be squirted, splashed or sprayed. They provide energy. I also experiment with a variety of pastes and gels that act as topographic maps, crevices, wrinkles, canyons, and use a variety of tools and objects to carve or emboss more texture and more layers. Many of my works are third or fourth generations—that last layer providing the rationale for the first. Although I might have a general direction in mind when I start, sooner or later the materials find their own path. And yes, sometimes just paint is enough; a few of my works are simply “acrylics on canvas” or several paints (acrylic, house paint, acrylic paint markers) without additional materials. 

“Urban Abstractions” are not necessarily “city” scenes or inspired by specific urban areas, but reflect my attraction to the energy, colors, sounds and motion typical of urban environments. Some of this inspiration actually comes from the vibrancy of smaller settings, the graffiti found in a small park, the cacophony and upheaval of destruction and renovation wherever it is found.