Why Abstract?
Some have asked why I paint “abstract”. I respond with another question, “Why not?” The truth is, “All great art is due to the abstraction process!”
There are simply such a great many things I need to express in my work and traditional, Classical Realism has far too many constraints and restrictive boundaries.
Even though much of my work is technically non-figurative and non-representational, I prefer not to use those terms as they have negative connotations. Besides, my images are not without form. They take on their own form and they are representational – they represent endless possibility. Of course calling my work ‘Abstract Art’ is also problematic since the term itself has become nondescript and a point of confusion. Yet it is a common term, used by many, for my type of artwork.
My paintings are abstract because I enjoy the freedom of creating entirely new images, images that really stir the imagination, compelling visions with drama and excitement.
Inspiration
Much of my paintings could be referred to as Abstract Expressionism and I do admire the works of Kline, Kandinsky, de Kooning and Gorky. I am also inspired by many Classical and Realists works, like Rembrandt, Turner, Constable, Homer, Millet…
The simple, yet effective strokes of John Singer-Sargent are intriguing to me as are the unique and powerful images produced by Bouguereau. And then I view Picasso and his contemporaries as great visionaries.
Methods
In order to attain the desired surface texture and imagery for the majority of my abstract paintings, I mainly use painting knives and rarely any brushes. The painting knife provides the bold and crisp texture found in many areas of my works and yet it also allows for surprisingly smooth and subtle passages when I need them. It is this “rhythm of texture” that has become my focus. The right texture in a painting, in my opinion, is almost as important as its tone and color.
By means of abstraction, my work aims to communicate a clearer message, centering on the very essence of the subject, whether it be tangible or imaginary.
See more at https://curtisverdun.com