Solo

The Solo project explores theoretical ideas about grammatical (using rules) approaches to art. It applies a simple rule of exploring one object to experience its visual qualities and play with illusions. It subtly subverts the Trio project to illustrate how rules may be used in alternative ways to expand a vocabulary of images.

The images showcased in the Solo Project are created from drawing and photographs of the actual objects. Objects were chosen and arranged in the studio with a reasonable light source. Photographs provide a snapshot for reference as the objects may decay or change during the painting process. A drawing begins the process, and the image develops in relation to personal experiences, changing contexts and the artefacts created along the way. 

The interesting idea in this is the starting point for the project. It becomes easier to begin when there is a rule base such as the number one to hang another hat on. Exceptions to  visual vocabulary rules provide exciting alternatives and insights. My book, Digital Design: a critical introduction, Bloomsbury, London, UK, 2012 provides further information for those who want to delve deeper.

My role in the project was to explore the variations possible with one item: fruit, flowers, vegetables or miscellaneous objects. (See samples above) Working alone in the studio, each painting was completed within two weeks or sometimes two months depending on complexity of the object and changing light conditions. The outcome of the project was a small group of paintings completed in the period 2019-2026. The categorization of an image created tension between a bowl and its contents, or a cake and its section marks.

Portraits of a single subject were also considered as part of the Solo Project. Thus the Portraiture project began and is presented separately.