SAGE STUDIO
ARTIST STATEMENT
Young at Art... is a new concept, and a new generation of Art is upon us. Most people want an exciting gallery experience, upbeat colors, and art that's fun. You can still appreciate the sanctuary like atmosphere of the Museum. However...Art should be a part of your everyday life. You should be able to picture it in your home as part of your lifestyle. So don't worry if you don't " Speak Art ". Let Art speak for itself and it will reflect your passions and desires.
MY STYLE
Contemporary and Colorful, my work provides a glimpse of the influences from my geographical local, as well as the ideas of my contemporaries. You will also find the exotic flavors of rhythm and culture from the nearby Mexico border. Simply put... my style is packed with color, simple compositions, and a natural Texas Twang. Which of course means Extra Large in many cases. Cause everything is absolutely bigger in Texas!
MY INFLUENCES
Early on Picasso was my instant favorite, perhaps because we shared a common birthday of October 25. Of course at 85 years old he claimed he was just learning to draw! Hmmm.. Jackson Pollock was free with paint, and textured surfaces. and I too seem to like these same freedoms. Jasper Johns Flags were loose, but commanding. I also find myself attracted to our Flag, but in a more expressive manner. . . And they are really really fun to paint!
THE PROCESS
My preferred medium is acrylic, it has a fast and spontaneous quality. I use large jars of paint that are easily accessed with a dip of the brush, you can even double dip! The freedom of not having to squeeze and mix paint, allows me to work on several pieces at once, going back and forth between them. Not only does this help change my perspective, but it adds to the creative process. ( And Sometimes Confusion )
My tools are just as important to this overall process. I will often use large long brushes and scraping tools to layer the paint. The paint I use is of Archival quality, and I stretch many of my own canvas' to get the desired sizes. Some canvas' have Fabriano watercolor paper applied with an Archival glue. The Fabriano Paper Mill made the paper products that Raphael and Michelangelo used, which are still hanging in Museums today.
The final stage in the life of my paintings is the Varnish finish. The varnish seals and protects the surface, and gives it a depth you have to see to believe. I love to tell children they can touch my paintings. It is amazing to watch them....Sadly not all works of art should be touched, so maybe I should stop this pratice....... Maybe Next Year.
MY GOALS
Finally being able to confidently say to people " I am an Artist ", and sound convinced myself, took many years. Now comfortable in this Genre, I realize I have been an Artist all my life. Of course I am constantly reinterpreting the meaning of Art, and it's role in my life. And for now...Realism is obviously not something I aspire to, but actively avoid.