"ARTifact #5" is an abstract painting characterized by a vibrant composition of textured brushstrokes and splatters. The canvas is a dynamic array of colors including blue, red, yellow, and hints of green and orange, layered on a white background that shows through the other colors in places. There is no discernible subject or form, allowing for a multitude of interpretations by the viewer. There are areas where the paint seems to have been scraped or removed, adding to the piece's complexity. The artwork is framed within a simple gallery wooden frame that has a narrow red strip running along its upper inner edge, providing a subtle but intentional border to the piece.
My ARTifact series is inspired by the natural processes of weather, time, cause and effect. Celebrating the beauty of a well-worn surface and an aesthetic of imperfection. My works are developed as a visceral response to my environment, ambiguous organic forms emerge from a play on negative and positive space. Balancing, barely touching yet they create tension between the shapes. The varied material I use are subjected to layering, peeling, scraping, scratching, heat and abrasion, in a similar way in which earth’s surface is exposed to the elements of fire, wind and water. My process is equally accidental and purposeful, intuitive and thoughtful. As paint is applied, then scratched and scraped back, a narrative is generated and a layering of history is revealed.
Original mixed media abstract oil painting by Stevenjohn McHugh titled "ARTifact #005". Measures 19.5" x 15" x 1.5. Framed size is 20.25 x 15.75" x 2.5". Mixed media with oil stick, marker, oil, graphite, charcoal and cold wax on Arches oil paper glued on wood panel with PH balance glue. Side of wood cradle (solid wood) is varished natural. Signed on front and back. Framed is a vanished gallery frame solid wood.
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