On the fifth of August in 2015, I stood before a blank canvas, uncertain of where to begin. Initially, I approached the work as four separate parts, but this notion failed to move me. However, there were certain color areas that began to resonate within me, and I felt compelled to incorporate them into the piece.
Thus, the canvas evolved into two diagonally divided parts, with a blue line demarcating their separation. The blue on the right panel was in harmony with my spirit, yet the other side needed something more to complete it.
Allow me to elucidate my creative process through an analogy. Like a social scientist, I formed a research question – a concept of colors to explore – and delved into the literature of my inspirations and influences. Then, I identified all possible variables, or paint colors and mixtures, which could engage in a dialogue with the blue panel. I formed a hypothesis of what might work – layering selected colors – and established a data collection method by deciding on the paint application strategy and tool choices.
The analysis phase entailed the constant evaluation of the emerging effort with each completed paint color application. The conclusion, if any, is left to your interpretation. I wrote these words in the autumn of that same year, in a state of mind akin to my days as a sociology professor. Thus, my perception of nature’s influence on this painting, its peace and serenity, reflects the state of my soul during that summer of 2015.
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