UNDERSTANDING ABSTRACT ART #3

Title: “Prayer” - 75x95cm (framed) Collage with Gold Leaf on handmade and synthetic papers

THE IDEA BEHIND THE COLLAGE:

The composition is made from different types of paper. Some are synthetic papers. Others are handmade by me by rendering plant vegetation. The point of focus is a Buddhist Prayer Paper. These three types of paper represent various spiritual orientations and how they can function in harmony together. Also the balance between the different types of products (synthetic, manufactured and natural) suggests that technology can coexist in harmony with the natural and the spiritual.

Artistic techniques to achieve this:-

The overall tertiary colour composition is alludes to a mature and deep understanding of spirituality. This is emphasized by the gold leaf on the Sacred Prayer paper. Gold represents the highest element in that it is incorruptible. The gold is the point of focus. There is not black or white used.

The artistic composition is balanced and adheres to the rule of thirds. The shapes are predominantly geometric overlayed by the dominant organic shape made from mulberry leaf on the lower left. Whereas this combination adds contrast, it also is balanced. It alludes to how the conventional dogmatic approach to religious doctrine can exist together with the more flexible approach to spirituality put forth by the mystics. This collage represents how two contrasting forms can coexist in a balanced and respectful way.

Given that it is the Xmas Season the concept of “Peace to the World – Let all rejoice!” is foremost in many people’s minds. As we move into 2012, being constantly aware in the present moment helps one to a monitor one’s own actions and respond accordingly.

UNDERSTANDING ABSTRACT ART #2

THE IDEA BEHIND THE PAINTING: “Xmas Present” (Acrylic) 90x120cm

This painting alludes to the festivities and gift giving around Xmas. The ribbons, streamers and baubles…. The wrapped present and what is inside. The mystery of Xmas and of feeling of expectation…

Painting techniques to achieve this:-

I have used colours that are frequently associated with Christmas – reds, blues, silver, and greens. White infers purity and innocence of new live – this being a celebration of the birth of Christ.

The over shape of the painting alludes to the shape of a Xmas present tied up with ribbon and decorated with baubles.

The voluminous shapes speak of generosity. Generosity we feel towards each other at Christmas time.

The frenetic brushstrokes give a feeling of anticipation and excitement.

The diagonal emphasis running from right tip to left bottom is balanced by the white unpainted spaces of canvas. The horizontal and vertical lines depicting the ribbon create balance.

The overall feeling it gives me is that of festivity…

Merry Christmas to all from Tanmayo.

UNDERSTANDING ABSTRACT ART #1

I would like to use this blog to help viewers to better understand Abstract Art. I will use my own paintings as prime examples. My explanation of the artistic techniques used in my paintings are based on my life long painting experience and to a lesser degree I will draw on Mary Acton's book "Learning to look at Modern Art".

My paintings will not be displayed in the sequence they were completed, but later when I get more into the rhythm of blogging, a sequencing may occur.

I will try to post a different painting every week.

THE IDEA BEHIND THE PAINTING: "Lunescence" (Mixed media) 90x90cm

This painting deals with the dialectic Night and Day. It captures the transient balance between the opposites. The title “Lunescence” suggests a nocturnal influence and alludes to the elusive moment when night turns to day. The painting depicts the importance of maintaining a balance in nature for the continued health of this planet.

Painting techniques to achieve this:-

I have used contrast to depict duality. For example the painting has a shiny + dull effect, its texture is both smooth + rough, colours are bright + dark, and paint is fluid + static. The discordant use of orange is off set by a deep purple. The composition is balanced and has a horizontal emphasis. The square shape of the painting is emphasized by the square moon done in silver leaf. This gives the overall feeling of balance.