When it comes to my art a major focus is painting how I want to feel: connected to mindfulness and tranquility. The first part of that is getting myself in the right headspace, but the second (and most crucial for the viewer) is understanding how to communicate that visually. I’ve compiled examples of some elements in my art that make underscore mindfulness and relaxation.
Simple color pallets- I don’t like to overwhelm the eye with color. While I have been working with more rich hues, I prefer to keep it to a limited and cohesive range. Another factor of color I consider is the saturation. I like strong contrast, but I want the colors to feel like they’re singing around the same volume.
Organic shapes and soft edges- I gravitate towards the imperfect and weathered. Maybe that’s why I prefer driftwood for my fiber work. I have no interest in perfecting my lines or shapes, I want only marks that flow with expression and allow for multiple interpretations. I love that about abstract art- it can meet you wherever you are.
Gentle patterns and texture- I love when art engages more than one sense at a time, which is why I love expressing with texture. Some are implied with primitive markings and symbols, and others are more literal like with thick paint or layered fibers. You can really see this effect in the pieces I have done for 1 Hotels locations in Toronto and San Francisco.
Balance and harmony- I always consider these elements when deciding where to take a composition. I want the eye to visit every inch of the piece, even if there’s a clear focal point. Places to rest and places to move are necessary elements for any mindful design. This harkens back to my simple color pallet because you can’t have everything speaking at once- some things have to be supporting characters. Another term for this is “visual weight”, which played a key role in my collaboration with Evereve.
Personal connection- many of my material selections and symbols reflect deep personal meaning and gratitude. I really believe objects hold energy, so filling your home with physical manifestations of growth and comfort can only help welcome more of that in.
Ask any interior designer and they will tell you it’s not one element that makes a space, but one can definitely throw it off. Thats what makes working with them so helpful: you’re not overwhelmed by all the little decisions when you have a clear overall vision. Look for small changes you can make to bring more intention and connection to your home and you’ll feel the benefit right away.
