Art quotes

"For the last 20 year period I've been working with ideas conceived as a child." -Red Grooms

Sunday, March 6, 2016

Van Gogh Flowers Inspire

       Why would an artist paint or sculpt a subject like flowers if they were using the real deal as the model? You have the beauty sitting right in front of you. Why not snap a photo and be done?
Japanese Iris in a Vase,
16x12 oil on canvas board
     

       For me studying the flowers in close detail gives me a chance to soak in the emotions of seeing its beauty and express that emotion in my response. Also it’s fun and challenging and at the end of the experience you have preserved that flower for years to come. Just think of all those wilted former sparks of joy and how they are not with us except in our memories.


       Recently I looked through some paintings that needed a little touch-up help and found a painting of a pot of Japanese irises that just might be improved. After several weak attempts I turned to an expert on the subject of flowers, Vincent Van Gogh. His potted flowers are just the inspiration I needed.


       The day that this entry was written Scott Kelly just returned from one year in the international space station. One of his many experiments was growing flowers in space. He remarked that the flowers brought him closer to his home, earth. Most earthlings feel a special wonder to the flowers that  can speak to us saying, I love you, or I’m sorry, or Welcome Spring.

       Here’s to a new season! Be sure to celebrate Arts Advocacy Day, Monday March 7.
Joel
Joel Ellis Art, www.joelellisart.com

Three Poppies, 20x24