The Rest Series.

I've always worked within series to a degree, but much more purposefully as of late. Since the beginning of the Pandemic Paintings it seems like one-offs, something I used to do regularly, are a bit less frequent. From Natural Remedy and the multiple miniseries within that collection to the (planned) portrait series, to Rest itself, it seems like my ideas lately have come in pairs, if not trios or even dozens. Much like my paintings, I don't usually set out with the plan to make a series of any particular scale, but after the first painting is finished, there's a drive to do more; a feeling that lacks finality; the compulsion that there's more left in the well of said concept.

The Rest series started as one of the Pandemic Paintings but it left an impression all its own that kept me coming back to this painting in particular. While all the pandemic paintings were exploring ideas of isolation, meditation, and a sense-of or loss-of self, Rest seemed more confident in its wonder and tranquility. 

Where other paintings from the series always had a tension between figures, the viewer and/or landscape, Rest was more focused on the idea of oneself being enveloped in those surroundings, unconcerned or unaware of the other figures in the scene.

In Rest, the figures are calm, but I'm unsure if that serenity is from comfort or acceptance; thoughtfulness or thoughtlessness; awareness or ignorance. 

Sometimes we block out the things around us and work at finding peace. Sometimes we release our attempt at control and find peace amongst the chaos. Sometimes you're just sinking into the couch without a thought either way, but it doesn't really matter.

The Rest series is about these moments. Moments where you find peace within yourself and your surroundings, sometimes in spite of yourself and your surroundings, and sometimes with the help of both.

The Rest series is currently on view at the private gallery in the University Club Tower. Each painting is available for purchase through the gallery until the end of the show.

Contact me today for details and options.