ANNA HENDERSON
The major obstacle to making an abstract artwork is the barrier, in my mind, that questions whether abstract art is a legitimate art form, legitimate for me, that is.
The barrier may be because I constantly question, what is it, what does it mean and when is it done.
Creating these abstract works has been an exercise in finding a solution to these restrictive thoughts, to allow myself to experiment with different mediums and to have fun with them.
And, to let go of the needless worry. The work really does not need explanation.
Each painting is created over a number of days, using endless layers of paint, lots of sanding, scraping back, scratching lines, seeing what lies beneath, exploring those shadows and then, perhaps, covering them up again, or not.
Each work is a journey into the ‘unknowns’ that our lives and the world around us, present.
The mixed media used is joint compound, acrylics, oil and oil sticks and charcoal on canvas and wooden panels. The work is finished with a Matisse satin varnish.
My paintings are complimented with ceramics. Each piece is unique; exploring the endless possibilities of Raku, Saggar and Sawdust firing.
Creating large coil built pots provide a quiet, reflective space in my mind, an escape from the challenging painting process.
So, to all, who visit ‘Chasing Shadows’, please enjoy.