The Inspiration Behind My Abstract Drip Paintings

The COLORSCAPE art series of large drip paintings dates back to 2003 when I was commissioned to create two large custom paintings for a client. 

The Seed Idea for my Colorscape Art Collection

Commissioned work often leads me to explore novel and stimulating avenues driven by the client's requirements or preferences.

Typically, I begin the custom painting process by referencing previous works. In this particular case, the client sought something similar to my past work, and they were particularly drawn to my unique use of textures and colors. 

They admired drip paintings they had seen in a gallery and expressed a desire for their inclusion. Abstract landscapes also appealed to them.

Finding the Right Recipe for Acrylic Drip Paintings

What I was hoping to achieve was nothing like the famous Jackson Pollock drip paintings. Jackson Pollock’s technique was all about dripping paint in a very rapid and aggressive manner. His paint colors did not merge; they built up like string.

I wanted my paint to be more fluid and for the colors to flow. But just adding water was not going to work

Diluting acrylic pigment excessively can degrade its archival integrity, resulting in fading and flaking over time—an outcome I was keen to avoid.

At the time I needed to experiment with different consistencies of paint to discover the best mixture for dripping acrylic paint while maintaining the color integrity

To execute this, I delved into research and testing to determine the optimal consistency for dripping paint without compromising pigment quality.

Another challenge emerged: merging textures, dripped paint, and abstract landscape elements into a horizontal composition, all in their preferred color palette. But it all worked out and served to inspire me to paint an entire series over 7 years.

How the Abstract Colorscape Collection of Drip Paintings Evolved

Both the client and I were delighted with the final pieces. The process and outcomes were exciting, sparking a continued exploration of this newfound approach, eventually giving rise to an entire series.

What captivated me wasn't solely the process but also the underlying concept. For years, I've been fascinated by how certain color combinations not only capture the essence of a place but also evoke distinct emotions.

In each painting within the abstract Colorscape painting collection, I chose a specific color chord similar to musical tones, which subconsciously elicit particular effects. By melding my color choices with tactile textures and rhythmic, dripped and painted lines, I heightened the sensation of internal energy.

The COLORSCAPE painting series garnered acclaim from galleries and collectors alike, featuring prominently in solo exhibitions in Toronto, Detroit, Dallas, and Naples, Florida. Additionally, they made appearances in various group shows.

During this period, I was also privileged to undertake other significant commissions. Notably, a standout project involved collaborating with Maestro John Morris Russell, then-conductor of the Windsor Symphony Orchestra. Serving as Artist in Residence for a year, I was tasked with creating a large painting, titled COLORSCAPE SYMPHONY.

This painting became a focal point of WSO promotional materials throughout the year. COLORSCAPE SYMPHONY was auctioned off at the Windsor Symphony Gala, raising $6000. to benefit the Children's Orchestra.

A few prominent collectors of the COLORSCAPE painting series include the Zekelman family, University of Windsor, Odette Foundation, WFCU Credit Union, Toldo family, A & W Food Service Corp and Ste. Cecile Library. In addition many of these paintings still grace the lobbies and reception areas of numerous medical and professional offices, not to mention countless private homes. 

In 2009, James Patten, the then curator of our regional museum, Art Gallery of Windsor, came for a studio visit. After looking at my work and commenting how much he liked them, he threw down a challenge. He offered me a solo museum show in two years time if I agreed to push my concept further.

Of course I excitedly agreed. And thus began my next series FORCES OF NATURE.