I began creating geometric abstract drawings as a teenager in the 1970s. The initial effort could have been characterized as sophisticated doodling, but quickly evolved into more serious experimentation with a variety of shapes and colors. Influenced during that period by parents with strong interests in modern architecture and design, as well as the late architect Walter Netsch, the drawings were neither exhibited nor shared with a wider audience in any way.
While eventually pursuing non-art-related educational and professional opportunities, I nevertheless continued drawing throughout the 1980s, 1990s, and into the new millennium. Special emphasis during this period was directed toward developing ideas around different geometric concepts and, most significantly, perfecting a variety of drawing techniques using colored pencils on paper.
By 2005 the lengthy period of time spent experimenting with different ideas and techniques proved to be very beneficial. Among other things, it led to the creation of a wide variety of individual pieces and groups of drawings with specific themes. In short, I have been given a wonderful chance, albeit later in life than is customary, to continue producing thought-provoking abstract drawings as a self-taught, or outsider artist.
Inspiration for the pencil drawings comes from a variety of sources, including common objects and materials, architecture, machinery, and shapes, lines and shadows seen throughout our everyday experiences. Special attention is paid to emphasizing relationships between lines and shapes, as well as patterns that can be created by manipulating them. Some of the relationships and patterns may seem obvious and logical, while others may not. The “less is more” theme is central to many of the drawings, as is the idea of magnifying small portions of larger patterns. The use of symmetry is evident in some of the drawings, while others are more free-flowing.
Along with the colored pencils, only a ruler and a circle template are used to create the drawings. No computer or computer software is used during any part of the drawing process, and no color enhancement tools are employed. Each drawing is lightly brushed to increase the consistency of color and, if desired, blend different colors. A fixative is then sprayed onto the drawings to provide the desired finish. Although different drawings may touch on or incorporate similar themes, each drawing is entirely unique.
