Sometimes there is a pleasant surprise.

For the past few years I have been working on images derived from the investigation of wilderness locations. Landscapes are selected that have been untouched, or relatively untouched, by the human hand. Composing the image, within the limits of the picture plane, is the driving force. The intent is one of orchestrating the space, shapes, colors and rhythms so each component is dependent on the others thus establishing an aggregate producing a specific kind of equilibrium. To take from or add to the image would destroy the distinctive stability of the piece. The objective is one of configuring a visual arrangement into a pictorial metaphor confirming the beauty and mystery of nature.

At times, at a distance, the exhilarating shapes, values and colors of a mountain range are studied. Other times, sitting in the shade, the beauty of a small stream of water flowing past rocks and branch are investigated. Either view inspires an image. I do preliminary research in the field. My preference is to finish the images in my studio away from flies, mosquitos, heat and cold. On occasion, I am pleasantly surprised while working. “Water’s Edge, Falling Leaf 7 is a new image in a series. I have several series projects in progress. My working habit is one of active engagement with the image then backing away to determine the effectiveness of the engagement. In my mind this piece was about half finished. On moving back from the image I was pleasantly surprised on observing the energy in the relationship of the dark shapes and colors juxtaposed against the lighter shapes and colors. There were also subtle geometric edges playing a role in the configuration; how they appeared I do not know. I was pleasantly surprised by the impact of the image. I left the studio without making another mark.