I am a self-taught artist. My artistic journey is a progression through various media, each with its unique challenges and rewards.
Pencil Drawing
My evolution as an artist began with the meticulous strokes of a pencil, capturing the world in its intricate detail. Influenced by hyper-realist artists such as Dirk Dzimirsky and Paul Cadden, this foundational practice in realism has informed my understanding of form, light, and shadow, allowing me to infuse a sense of depth and authenticity into every piece I create.
Transition to Pastel
Switching to pastels introduced me to the world of color and a new set of techniques. Unlike pencils, pastels offered me a more direct application of pigment to paper, allowing for vibrant colors and expressive strokes. I learned about blending colors, layering, and creating textures unique to this medium.
Exploring Mixed Media
Mixed media opened up endless possibilities for experimentation and creativity. Combining different materials and techniques allowed me more complex and textured artworks. I have integrated different elements, including modeling paste, real rocks, and seashells into acrylic paintings and finished them off with a shiny coat of resin. This stage allowed me to think outside the box and push the boundaries of traditional art forms.
Mastering Oil Painting
Finally, transitioning to oil painting has been a significant step in my artistic journey. Oil paints offer rich colors, a slow drying time, and the ability to create a wide range of textures and effects. Mastering this medium involves understanding the properties of oil paints, mediums, and solvents, as well as techniques like glazing, impasto, and underpainting. This stage has allowed me to create more complex and layered artworks, with a depth and richness that is unique to oil painting.
Although my primary love is for figurative works, I started expanding my themes to include landscape and nature-based paintings.
Reflecting on the Journey
Each stage of my journey has contributed to my growth as an artist, providing me with a diverse skill set and a broad understanding of different artistic techniques and materials. My progression from realistic pencil drawings to the rich, textured world of oil painting illustrates my desire to challenge myself and explore new creative avenues.