Dabbling with the Abstracts

Abstract. What does that even mean? Does that even matter?

Having been brought up believing that good art was that which represented the subject accurately, I never really dabbled with abstract. Whatever it means. I created some pieces and then figured I should find out what it actually means as a word…

Relating to or denoting art that does not attempt to represent external reality, but rather seeks to achieve its effect using shapes, colours, and textures.

Well that’s the very job for me! As a graphic designer for nearly 20 years, and an industrial designer before that, I’ve been limited in what I produce creatively. This process was incredibly freeing for me.

I was reflecting on the first couple of attempts during the morning pages (The Artist’s Journey) and I realised that a lot of its appeal is looking for shapes and colours that remind us of something. Seeing different things and enjoying looking for them. A bit like when you look at the clouds and see if they look like something. One of the most relaxing and mindful passtimes where you can get lost in the adventure.

It’s all a far departure from my drawings, and I love that because it feels like it’s not just the artwork that features juxtapositions, nor are they just so contrasting, but it’s within me.