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11/13/2017 11:06:50 AM

Autumn Colours


The colours that I have used in my artwork in the past have been, for the most part, subdued and natural.  I did not want my work to be pretty because I thought "pretty" would take away from the emotion that I feel for my subject matter.  For some reason this fall I feel comfortable with those reds and yellows and have done a few works using them.  This most recent egg tempera painting, "The Original Wall" also includes my love of early stone walls.  I like the contrast between the heaviness and stability of the rocks and the bright but fleeting foliage.  


Comments

5 Responses to Autumn Colours

I think from the wonderful dozens of comments that you received on your facebook account that you should realize "pretty" is OK; after all, the autumn is the prettiest time of year in New Brunswick. The painting is spectacular. You did justice to the season.

Posted by Sharon · via davidmckayartist.com · 107 months ago

David this is beautiful... spectacular like the autumn foliage itself (which here at least, wasn't very spectacular, this year I'm afraid)... but nothing beats autumn in New Brunswick, and you have captured it at its brilliant best.

Never second think sincere emotion. I know what you mean by 'pretty,' but in the context you say it you are leaning to 'inconsequential.' I don't think I could ever characterize your paintings inconsequential. Paint from your heart; it'll shine through.

Dina

Posted by Dina E Cox · via davidmckayartist.com · 107 months ago

Sharon, thanks for commenting. I agree that I have received a lot of favourable comments on Facebook, which in a way is to be expected (friends and family etc.), but you reminded me that I should not take that too lightly. Their opinions are as relevant as any art critic's. If an artist is going to show his work to society then any viewer's voice, in any capacity, should be considered. And any favourable adjective is ok with me.

Posted by David McKay · via davidmckayartist.com · 107 months ago

Dina,
You hit upon the exact word "inconsequential." Some objects have become so iconic in the visual arts. Things like sunsets, covered bridges and autumn foliage. Pretty things but only inconsequential if they are painted poorly, or for that pretty effect alone.
Thank you for feeling that my paintings are not inconsequential. I have always believed that any subject is valid if the artist's heart and mind are honestly in it. Thanks for reminding me of that.

Posted by David McKay · via davidmckayartist.com · 107 months ago

It's the same with poetry... how many poets have tackled the topic of Canada Geese... and they are always "flying in a V," or the "worn" appearance of an old barn... It's about having confidence in your own twist or take on a subject... and about how you present it, be it poetry or art on a canvas.

D.

Posted by Dina E Cox · via davidmckayartist.com · 107 months ago

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