FORSTER GALLERY

Artist Statement 

As an abstract artist I immerse myself in the environment to capture that sense of place. My work comes from the connection I have to a landscape using all my senses to express the emotion and feel of a place and then translate that into my artwork. Abstract art is more than just putting down paint and moving it around a canvas. You have to start from a story, a place, image or feeling. You have to know your medium, colours and brushwork and be able to build your painting up from a foundation that can capture all of that. This is what I love about abstract art. It’s the layers that you build upon, the colours you use and the strokes that create the emotions to form ‘good art.’

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Workshop Description

In my workshops, I ask you to bring a photo that has meaning to you and that you feel connected to. We will explore what it means to you and how it makes you feel. We look at its depth and work toward expressing this through your own painting.

The first day will begin with a demonstration on how I begin with an abstract painting, as this is one of the most asked questions to me. I like to bring the artists into the conversation while I demonstrate, its a great way to learn all sorts of things relating to art. The artists will then start on their own piece, I will spend time with you all discussing the image you have brought and the best way to abstract it. After we break for lunch I will continue onto the next step with my painting, and then you will continue on yours. I constantly walk around to each artist giving advice and assistance if need be.

The second day we will resume and get more and more into our abstraction. Finishing with a group discussion on our work and to discuss how each artist thought they went, any challenges they may have had. I find this is very important in a group setting, as once more we will all learn and benefit from this.

Paintings take time. To understand, explore, experiment and to challenge preconceived ideas so I can not guarantee a completed artwork by the end of my workshop (in fact most won’t be). What I can guarantee is the beginning of a deeper understanding of abstract art and the techniques to achieve good artworks. This will enable you to confidently continue with your painting and build on what you have gained through my workshop. I look forward to exploring this with you.