"Waiting on a Fare", 8x6 oil on linen
These five new paintings are headed to Travis Gallery for their "Annual Small Paintings Exhibit", Nov, 30th thru Dec, 22nd, 2013, travisgallery@comcast.net 215-794-3903. I usually do these small paintings as studies for larger pieces, but sometimes I feel they hold up as finished pieces....although small and usually only appropriate for small works shows, like this one.
The interesting thing about doing paintings this small is the need to simplify. It forces me to get the essence of what is there with economy of brush work, and encourages suggestion and indication of the subject....rather than using elaborate rendering. I have been doing this for a long time, but I am always trying to learn how to improve my methods of expressing myself with paint. This is how I prefer to describe the subjects in my paintings. The challenge and trick for me, is to get the same simplification in larger works without going to far. I feel there is magic line where one can over simplify to the point that it is no longer interesting for me. I personally want to see more suggested detail.....indication of the tactile quality of a surface, etc. Sometimes over simplification does not satisfy that. It is not an easy thing to do....in my opinion, but certainly a worthwhile pursuit, and not necessarily something all artists might be interested in....or concerned with.
"The Green Tractor", 6x8 oil on linen
"Autumn Gold", 9x12 oil on linen
"Mary's Place", 9x12 oil on linen
"Nice Toss", 6x8 oil on linen
Another possible issue with working small, as it relates to Galleries, is the pricing aspect. Gallery wall space is very expensive...as we all know...and Galleries might prefer larger, more substantially priced paintings in general for display on their walls. I'm sure that is not a universal attitude, but I certainly understand galleries that might feel that way.....so, thankfully some galleries still have these annual small works shows,holiday events with small works, etc. There are always outlets for these size works. These are my opinions and do not necessarily reflect any universal attitudes on this subject. Until next time, thanks for listening to my Cajun ramblings!
