Recomposing The Canon

We speak the languages we are taught,  linguistically, acoustically, and artistically. We inherit forms of expression. When we are aware of those forms we are more capable of seeing other possibilities for expression. We better equipped to change or adjust inherited forms. For example, countless artists have borrowed the design of DaVinci’s Last Supper’s  for both  its form and its metaphorical capacities. DaVinci himself borrowed and improvised this form.  Example 1 is a video still from a work by Kudazanai Chiurai retooling DaVinci’s design.

Example 1. Kudazanai Chiurai, Video still, Lyeza.

Here is another popular form (a landscape form) used by artists since the 17^th century. Example 2 demonstrates Corot’s use of this form.  I outlined his design. Following Corot’s example are there my modifications of this design. Example 3, oil on anodized aluminum uses the form with modifications. I added a third central element. Corot had done this previously in his own works.  Example 4 began with a substrate of water color in yellow (top) and blue (bottom). Example 5 represents example 4 after an application of oil paint. This image also uses a third central element but, with a higher horizon.

Example 2, Diagramed Corot.

Example 3. My landscape after Corot.

Example 4. Step one, Watercolor Substrate.

Example 5. Step two, after applying oils.

Example 6 uses a simpler version with a mountain on the left which assumes the framing role of Corot’s trees. I included design lines in this latest version of the painting. The block of framing trees on the right remains. This painting began by over-painting an older image. You can see traces of that original image in example 6b which here represents step one of the painting. Example 6a presents the original photograph with a superimposed design (white lines) to better exploit Corot’s design. Notice that my design lines introduce a different structure than the photograph provided.  I disregarded shapes given in the photograph and superimposed my own.

Example 6a. modified original photograph.

Example 6b.Step one of the painting.

Example 6. Step two of the painting.

I invite you to join me in my workshop “Painting Reflections on Water, Glass and  More” at the Silvermine Art Center in New Canaan, Ct. on Saturday March 12. Call 203 966 6668 ext 2  to register or visit silvermineart.org to learn more.