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Grassland Series Artist Statement

I create contemporary semi-abstracts. My style is quite unique as it combines two artistic styles. I have blended contemporary abstract oil painting with traditional realism watercolor. I delight in combining these genres as I love the softness of the watercolor in contrast to the vibrancy of the oil paint. I also enjoy the contrast of the Realism and Abstract movements.

In this body of work I hope to encourage a connection to the environment. In their non-disturbed state grassy plains are magnificent, and vibrant parts of biological tapestry. Once covering vast tracts of the continent’s plains. The grassland are now among the most vulnerable and endangered habitats due to urbanization. I express the rugged beauty by focusing on the birds and animals that live in this environment. I include birds such as Sparrows, Eagles, Parrots Crows and Ravens to bring energy, create interest and narrative.

I would describe my own personal style as continuously creating tension in the artwork. I achieve this through the combined use of premediated realism and abstract improvisation, where the realism is used as a measure of my ability and the abstract work displays my artistic expression. I also create tension in the painting though a juxtaposition of styles, combining a range of traditional painting mediums such as oil, watercolors and acrylic paint together in the same painting. I particularly enjoy the contrast of the vividness of the oil paint against the softness of the watercolor. Often the final varnish is also used as a tool to create contrast with ultra-gloss used alongside matte varnish. I believe this technique serves to make a powerful painting and stamps my own style.

People are growing aware of the need to protect our coral reefs, our forests and our grassland plains. Our environment is being discussed more and more, and I hope to stimulate care and concern for this beautiful habitat in this collection of works.

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