Optimistic Painting

              For thousands of years art was used to prompt the highest ideals of a society. Today art is often used to shock society and play down the virtues of mankind. At times humanity does need to see undesirable images of itself, but it should not be constantly forced upon us with a steady stream of images of death, perversions, and degradation. Art of today needs to be balanced between pessimism and optimism.

            Art that uplifts the soul does not have to be representational. It can be abstract and non-objective. Color, line, and form can effectively convey optimism in a work of art. Relying heavily on the use of harmonic color can project a mood of optimism to the viewer. I attempt to achieve this by using colors that are light, airy, warm, and pleasing to the eye. Using harmonic color combinations gives a very peaceful feeling as opposed to strong contrasting color combinations.

            By mastering the use of abstract line, form, and color I hope my works of art can communicate these feelings of optimism in the spectator.