Painting with a big brush and lots of paint

 A tangent in art is where things just meet and often is not considered a good thing within a composition; however, the intersection of dissimilar things in nature is often where the greatest interest is to be found. Frequently, wildlife is seen at the transitional zone between a tree line and a meadow, the stark beauty of timberline set against a barren rocky peak can be incredibly interesting. I find that in painting the same holds true, we find great interest at contrast and often I utilize convergence to maximize this heightened sense of interest. Shapes, colors, edges, change in color temperature or value these are but a few of the incredible visual possibilities to attract interest. The eye seeks balance so I must also be careful to provide solace and quiet for the viewer and while I enjoy the crescendo and excitement of contrast I really savor the quiet, calm of the less dramatic passages. As it is in life paintings must also have a balance. Each of the paintings below are intentional efforts to push the notion of convergence to seek maximum interest; however, I also sought areas for the eye to rest. I find that when I paint in this more contemporary manner I push color and run a risk of going too far. Design and consideration become very important. In my life when things are going well, I push the limits and often become exhausted, but time alone in the wilderness or at the easel allow for reflection, consideration and my mind slows. Perhaps painting allows the viewer to slow down, in this fast paced world. Perhaps, art is and will be more relevant as technology pushes the limits of human perception and we near exhaustion. Perhaps.