Bijoux Painting

The Process: In this series of 20" x 20" pieces I created in 2019, I wanted to layer the works to create depth while contrasting the pieces with a sense of flatness. Using contact paper, I masked out shapes to preserve the primary layers. These shapes masked out are a play with negative and positive space. Using a flat wash of color on the top layer, I am able to contrast smooth, flat application of a solid color with more complex designs on the primary layers. The Ideas: What has interested me in painting is the ability to reveal and conceal within the layers, as well as the relationship between absence in presence, and how the two are interconnected. In my work, parts of the painting are present, and parts of the painting are removed, framing what was once there. The painting is titled "Bijoux" which means jewels in French. My hope is this piece creates an experience for the viewer similar to peering into a dark cave and unearthing gemstones glistening on the ground; an unexpected, beautiful sight to behold among dirt and dark abyss.