Art on the Walls: Joseph G. Smith
BCAA Art on the Walls exhibit "Reflections on the Natural World" featuring the works of Joseph G. Smith.
| WHERE: | Barnes & Noble Cafe | |
| RECEPTION: | Tuesday, May 5, 2009 - 5:30pm | |
| RUNS THROUGH: | Sunday, May 31, 2009 | |
| ARTIST WEBSITE: | www.josephsmithgallery.com |
The pieces in this collection are all interpretations of the natural surroundings of colorful Colorado. Most include a tranquil area of water juxtaposed against vast mountain ranges. Other more intimate compositions include mountain streams depicting the movement of the stream as it cascades over rocks or branches. The brush work in the water adds elements of movement and energy. The element of water as a subject matter evokes thoughts of its life giving properties, while providing a tranquil, almost hypnotic experience to an open viewer.
My work is a modern interpretation of the natural world. It is a balance between representation and expression, historical technique and a modern sensibility.
Under the textures of paint and color palette lies the over all theme of my work. The natural world provides wonder and awe for which there is an abundance to contemplate. Visually, nature provides for the artist reflection. It reminds us of our place in the world and yet provides that which every artist needs. It provides inspiration. Picasso said, "Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life." So too does nature. Van Gogh said, "I experienced a period of frightening clarity in those moments when nature is so beautiful. I am no longer sure of myself, and the paintings appear as in a dream." He often also spoke that an artist must be "sensitive" and I believe he meant, for the artist, visually sensitive. He meant that the experience of sight, especially the sight of natural beauty, evokes in the artist an overwhelming sensation. As an artist I attempt to interpret these emotions through form, color and composition, to portray to the viewer through a language of brush strokes the thrill of seeing.
Dream Lake |
Driftwood |
Mountain Stream II |
Study of Bierstadt Lake |
