"ARTifact #6" is full of vibrant and dynamic marks, showcasing a complex interplay of colors and textures. The top half of the painting features a predominantly white background with bold strokes of red, blue, and green, as well as hints of yellow. These colors seem to be layered and scraped, giving a sense of depth and movement.
The lower half transitions to a lively pink background, overlaid with expressive splashes and drips in red, blue, green, dark purple, and white. These marks vary in intensity and thickness, with some areas appearing heavily saturated while others are more delicate and subtle. Throughout the piece, there are signs of the painting process, such as drips, splatters, and the textural quality of the paint application, contributing to a sense of spontaneity and gestural freedom. The overall effect is one of raw energy and emotion conveyed through color and form.
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 #006". 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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