Abstractions: Exploring the non-representational realm

“Nightfall” // 40” x 60” // acrylic on canvas

Expressing the undefined

One of my favorite ways to paint is to simply get lost in the process. Non-representational paintings are energy—expressions that come from both within and beyond. They channel a connection to the unknown, the undefined world we live in. And, they can be fun to look at, too—because meaning lives entirely in the viewer's interpretation.

“Seeing What Happens” // 22” x 30” // mixed media on paper

Tapping into the void

Before beginning these paintings, I always take a moment to pause—to breathe and drop into a quick meditation. This helps open me up to my intuition and to allows whatever wants to come through: marks, colors, impressions, emotions. Then I begin, usually with broad swaths of color or soft washes to help establish a foundation I can respond to.

“Here and There” // 36” x 48” // acrylic, oil and cold wax on panel

Allowing for surprise & wonder

The joy in this work lies in allowing myself to be surprised by what emerges. Sometimes I paint for hours without knowing what will happen or how the composition will unfold. Letting the brushstrokes, colors, and marks speak to one another helps guide what needs to happen next. It’s a back-and-forth process—balancing composition while intuitively responding to what unfolds on the surface.

“Lunae” // 34.25" x 27.25" framed // watercolor, ink, acrylic, & graphite on paper

At the end of the day, I pack up and go home, trying not to analyze what’s on the canvas. In the sessions that follow, I begin refining and listening to what the painting is saying. That may seem strange, but if you spend enough time with an abstract painting, you’ll start to see what I mean. The motion, the negative space, the intimate marks, the bold brush strokes—they all carry energy and intention. And I’d bet almost everyone can discover their own story within an abstract piece.

“Nowhere to Go, Nothing to Be #2” // 48” x 60” // acrylic on canvas

Beyond words

I also believe we can simply look at a piece of art without needing words. It doesn’t require a title. It doesn’t need someone to explain what it means. It just is. And the person viewing it will respond in their own way, creating meaning through the lens of their life experiences.

“Mist” // 18” x 30” // acrylic on canvas

Embracing the mystery

I invite you to sit with a painting and notice how you feel. What is your visceral response? Sometimes, appreciation and meaning emerge in unexpected ways—even without immediate resonance.

Some experiences live beyond language. Art can stir emotion, awaken memory, and spark inspiration—and we don’t always have words for those things. Sometimes, it’s best to simply embrace the mystery.

“Within/Without” // 48” x 60" // acrylic on canvas

You can read about some of my other styles of work here and view available work on my site here. To see additional available pieces, visit Blue Gallery online or in person in Kansas City, MO.