Abell to Art: Impressionist Paintings

The Enlightened Path to Art Understanding

Have you ever viewed a piece of artwork and just didn't understand it?

You may have wondered, "What is the artist trying to say here?"  "I just don't get it."

Perhaps a little direction might help. Come with me down this sunny path as I offer a little insight into this piece.  Any tips you acquire along the way would easily apply to most any other art you encounter as well.

As you can see, a tree-sheltered path meanders through the woods.  Simply put, you're "walking in sunshine". The inspiration for this painting stems from walks throughout the State Botanical of Garden of Georgia and my own neighborhood.  You can see it's fairly straightforward.  Springtime, trees, pathway, direction, sunshine.....

However, there are a few things to note. Think of deciphering a painting like unraveling a mystery.

Use these basic questions and follow the clues.

The Enlightened Path

I 24 x 36 gallery wrapped canvas I Susan Abell 2017[/caption]

• What is happening?
• What time of day does it appear to be?
• What colors are used? Are they light or dark?
• Is anyone in the painting?
• Where could the path lead?
• Why do you think the path seems to curve then fade into the light?

If you noted the purple shadows in the foreground...good for you.  If you saw the tree on the left and judged it to be slightly sheltering and leaning in, you were correct. If the sunlight outlining the path seemed to direct your eye to back of the background or focal point...now you are on to something!  Actually, the path appears to end, but is actually fading into the distant light, just beyond the curve.  Does that mean anything to you?

While paintings are subjective for the viewer, you likely can discern a few things I may have been conveying.  The path is certainly a metaphor for hope, promise, and perseverance at the very least. If you were to see any of my other works, you might observe a common pathway theme.  As an artist, I endeavor to connect with viewers on some level, however each work is open to interpretation.

At recent art shows, I was amazed to hear how differently booth visitors responded to my paintings. Some visitors made a quick connection to place. In those instances, I liked to see if they had an idea as to the inspiration before I jumped in to tell them where it was. Other visitors noted a common color scheme in many paintings.  Many others identified my emphasis of light. The individuals who made immediate connections to place or memory through a painting had found the right fit for them.

When you are considering artwork for your home, think about what speaks to you on some level.  Understanding and choosing art shouldn't be complicated.  After all, you are enlightened viewer on your own unique path!

You can learn more here. understanding art

If you liked this post, feel free to share with others on ‘your path’.

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