Sojourn Painting

At times of being overwhelmed or stressed, some of us need to retreat or escape somewhere, somehow, depending on our character really. It is a bit difficult for most to physically wander at this terrible moment especially and I find certain paintings can do the trick in our mind. With this series of Abstract Expressionist paintings that I am currently making, I am trying to achieve just that. I have warmed up the atmosphere with’ Sojourn’ through its ambers, reds, browns and some invigorating yellows. This one’s got a lot of detail as well, having a lot to explore and hopefully make one stay for a while. It is for relaxing, but also give one some inner warmth and hopefully reveals a secret smile. There is a great enjoyment just as much for me making these kinds of paintings. They give me such a lot of freedom through psychic automatism and creativity, although I do like to have a theme beforehand. That is how I usually start off after having some inspiration. Like with my other work, this kind of painting would be part of an ongoing body of paintings that I work in and out of. Eventually they will form into a series being added to by time. After the inspiration, I started by structuring and composing the piece, partly from an image, then by using my imagination. Gradually, it took its form through automatism, adding where I thought appropriate, getting me to a concept of serenity, warmth and balance. The painting itself is painted on a gallery wrapped stretched canvas which is painted neatly in a complementary ‘Red Iron Oxide’ all around the sides for a frameless modern look. However, a frame would suit it just as much if desired. Mixed media was my choice to work this out, basing it on acrylic paint, with some gesso and some pure pigment. I have signed it on the back this time for a better experience on viewing. Also on the back are the painting’s details and markings. Warm regards, Zeal.