Description
Untitled, no datePen and ink/watercolor on paper
Unsigned (what’s the reason for this?)
14 x 15.25 x 2 in. (frame)
original, includes certificate of authenticity from ArtTrust
This artwork “Untitled” presents a study in contrast and form, focusing on the face of a person rendered with a mix of bold brushstrokes and fine cross-hatching. The palette is limited to shades of black, white, and earthy browns, giving the piece a monochromatic effect with a sense of depth. The artist’s use of light and shadow creates a chiaroscuro effect, where the face emerges from a dark, undefined background. The overall mood suggests introspection or a contemplative state, with the face partly obscured by broad, gestural strokes.
In Zen philosophy, the simplicity of form and the interplay of light and shadow symbolize the duality and transient nature of existence. The ambiguity in the facial expression could reflect the Zen concept of “mu,” or emptiness, where meaning is not fixed but open to interpretation. The act of perceiving the face invites mindfulness and contemplation, much like a koan—a Zen riddle meant to provoke deep thought. The painting’s incomplete, almost fragmented appearance could represent the impermanence (anicca) that Zen emphasizes, reminding the observer that identity and emotions are in constant flux.
An I Ching interpretation may associate this artwork with Hexagram 52, “Keeping Still” (艮, Gen). This hexagram signifies stillness and meditation, emphasizing the importance of quiet introspection and self-awareness. The unresolved areas of the face might symbolize the need to look beyond surface appearances, to find meaning in silence and inner reflection. The contrasts between dark and light suggest a balance between action and stillness, a concept central to the hexagram’s meaning.
This artwork bridges Eastern philosophies with Western artistic techniques, using a simple yet expressive style to explore complex themes. The fragmented representation of the face evokes feelings of introspection and contemplation, suggesting a state of quietude where inner thoughts emerge and dissolve like the brushstrokes themselves. The interplay of light and shadow not only creates visual depth but also encourages deeper engagement with the self, in line with both Zen and I Ching traditions that advocate for meditation and inner harmony.
The use of expressive brushstrokes combined with fine lines connects this artwork to both traditional Western and Eastern art forms. It recalls the influence of Abstract Expressionism, where gestural brushwork is a means of conveying emotion and subjectivity. There is also a connection to Chinese ink painting, known for its use of negative space and brush techniques to create depth and suggest motion or emotion. The chiaroscuro effect pays homage to the techniques of artists like Rembrandt, who explored the relationship between light and shadow to evoke mood and introspection.
This artwork’s approach invites the viewer to engage with its layered meanings and subtle visual elements, offering a blend of abstraction and representation that spans cultural boundaries.
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Currently ships from Oregon, USA
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“Untitled” was featured in his Yes Retrospective
Reproductions of this drawing are available in multiple sizes!
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This artwork is available with a non-fungible token to ensure traceability and transparency of provenance.
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Anti-forgery – The central idea underpinning NFTs is that they are built on the blockchain, which is meant to offer advanced security. Think of it like an un-erasable and un-avoidable copyright.
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