grids (2008) — steve locke

grids

and everything after (February-March 2008)

Acrylic and oill on beveled birch panel, 30 x 56 inches

Private collection

secret meeting (February 2008)

Acrylic and oil on beveled birch panel. 36 inches square

detail of secret meeting

avail (January 2008)

Acrylic and oil on beveled birch panel. 36 inches square

Collection Fidelity Investments

consequence (2008)

Oil on beveled birch panel. 36 inches square.

Collection Fidelity Investments

for CMW (2008)

Acrylic and oil on panel, 10 inches square

Private collection

just like Ludovico (for Bronzino) (February-March 2008)

Acrylic and oil on beveled birch panel. 30 x 56 inches

fall (January 2008)

Acrylic and oil on beveled birch panel. 36 inches square

detail of fall

for Bernarda (2008)

oil on beveled birch panel, 36 x 40 inches

cascade (2008)

oil on beveled birch panel,36 x 40 inches

Private collection

These paintings focus on linking sensory and sensual experiences to the practical act of looking. There is a calculated tension resulting from the color combinations and their interaction with the repetitive marks that compose the overall image. The details compel the viewer to investigate further. The reward from inspection comes from discovering that the individual marks, painted square-by-square, are actually tiny portraits.

The paintings operate differently at various distances, changing, because of the viewer's activity. Subtle mixing of color creates gentle transitions, geometric shapes, and spatial illusion. Each piece is painted on the rear of a beveled panel, then hung on a French cleat. The paintings hover, allowing the back-painted color to reflect like a halo, which frames the piece in a pure hue.

The mini-portraits are varied in execution and placement; there are expressions and characteristics defined through gaze, directionality, and accessories.