My great inspiration for painting ocean abstracts reaches back to my first experience with the Gulf of Mexico – In that moment, I knew that I had met an old friend. I was taken by the enormous energy that revealed itself in bands of blue, aqua, grey and white. The sound of crashing waves and the distinctive scent of salt air left a significant and indelible impression on my creative mind and senses.

 

Relying on an imperfect mix of fluid acrylic paints and inks seems to best capture the movement of the ocean. Paint is poured onto the substrate in various amounts and allowed to stream together by gently tilting the canvas and using a palette knife to encourage its flow. Spray paint, water and alcohol are used to mimic sea foam and white caps, and inks are then rubbed into the dry surface to create unity.

 

The ocean touches all of one’s senses and and I am always looking to rediscover that experience of being immersed completely in its depths. I hope that my paintings convey both its soothing gentle qualities along with its explosive energy in an alliance of power and beauty.