Even though I work with abstract geometrics, my compositions always begin with observation. Sometimes the observation is purposeful with an intent in mind. And sometimes the observation is a happy accident. I still enjoy all kinds of sketching, but to capture unexpected color moments nothing beats the ease and speed of using my phone’s camera.
For example, one night as I was passing though the hall I noticed the most amazing green and blue shadows and light in a corner of the ceiling. I realized that the effect was being made by the illumination from a nighlight in the bathroom combining with the illumination from a star projector in my son’s bedroom. I grabbed my phone, snapped a few photos and that moment led to the start of a painting.
This practice of looking harder and seeing more isn’t something I consciously think about doing: over time it has become almost innate. But it is always exciting when my students start in their journey of seeing. I think it must be similar to watching a child unlock the code of reading. It opens up the mind to a richer world.