At the Beach #4 (14x20 float mounted in 18x24 frame) Painting

This 14x20 artwork is float mounted in a 18x24 black wood frame. Float mounting “floats” the artwork on a foam board lift, which is then mounted onto a mat backing. The height of the lift creates the floating effect by raising the artwork off the mat backing. My work is inspired by Gerhard Richter, his color choices and unique tools. Being able to manipulate the paint across the entire surface with one or two large squeegees is a revelation to me and makes every painting a challenge and an adventure. Each painting starts with basic color choices that are applied to the surface in a random color field technique. Then I begin blending with the squeegee. As the painting progresses more of the same and/or different colors are added to create vignettes across the surface until I'm satisfied with the results. This technique also provides a great deal of texture which gives each painting a three dimensional feel. I've found that knowing when to stop the painting is as important as any other aspect of the process. Sometimes I have to walk away for a few moments then come back to get a fresh perspective.