Perception

Jia Lu 2011, oil on canvas, 30 x 24 inches

I had almost forgotten this small canvas. I am very pleased with the light, relaxed brushwork. This is a direction in which I hope to move with future work, creating a maximum effect from a minimum of effort. In fact looks can deceive - I find it is very slow and difficult to paint like this because I tend to over-think my brushstrokes, and must take time to relax. This painting is as much about touch and hearing as it is about light and color - all my senses must be engaged when I work, so excuse me while I go and brew some Kona coffee and turn on some classical music.