Finding the edge

Finding the edge is about finding and redefining the boundries of space, shape, and potential.

It's about finding the zone between what exists and what can exist, the threshold of creativity.  It can be applied to  different concepts like finding the edge between the tree limb I am drawing here, and the sky that appears behind it.  It can also be the edge of what you think you can do and what you actually can do, exploring new territory of  yourself and your imagination.

While on a trip to visit family in Stonington, Ct. I discovered this writhing, hand-like tree that seemed to be reaching straight out of the ground. In this painting I tried to capture  the wiggly, human, limb-like personality of the tree by defining its hard, winding edges and set it against a loose, aquatic background to further capture its magical quality.  The contrast between the dark background and white limbs clearly defines its shape and presence.  The stark line that builds and wanes as it carves around the edge of the tree also defines it in a very deliberate approach, leading the eye in and around the spaces that dip and turn while exposing its texture, contour and volume.

Another way to create an edge, ironicly, is to blurr parts of the edge.  Having soft areas of color that are less defined helps emphasize striking edges and ultimately appear more dynamic in contrast.  

So to re-cap, finding the edge helps to define space, shape and movement to create a more dynamic presence.