Entry B
11″x14″, pastels and paper
“Generally I don’t think about art that I’ve seen in the past when I try to create something original, but there are a handful of artists that have undoubtedly influenced this piece (and others I have made) without my intention. The first artist that comes to mind is René Magritte. Though he primarily composed surrealism, the foundation of his art that enables it to be so intriguing to me is the fundamental realism that backs all of the absurd imagery. I do think this aptitude for realism he displays is something I’ve always wanted to capture in color and in shape and I feel like I’ve accomplished this with this piece. Another smaller influence is Van Gogh, I have a particular appreciation for his use of color at different times of day and overemphasized perspective in some of his pieces, both of which were captured in the photo I used for this piece.
The other largest influence I can pinpoint is Guy Billout, an artist I recently discovered. His take on very crisp and clean man made structures is unendingly fascinating. Surrealism is the facet of art from which I discovered him but his pieces that are not surreal are equally as interesting to me. I tried to capture clear and precise lines and shapes in the piece I made and the decision to use a man made telephone pole was certainly influenced by my interest in Billout’s art. Also the light pole is located on the street very close to where both pairs of my grandparents live, which adds a certain emotional connection to this piece for me.”