Trio

The Trio project explores theoretical ideas about grammatical approaches to art. It applies a simple rule of three to the initiation of the work. This guides explorations of the experience of objects. Cultural references are sometimes included to respond to a personal drama, a major event or a historical influence. 

The images showcased in the Trio project are created from drawing and photographs of the actual objects. Three objects are 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 engagement with the media. It becomes easier to begin when there is a rule base (such as the number three) to hang your hat on. Later, exceptions to the rule provide exciting alternatives and insights. My book, Digital Design: a critical introduction, Bloomsbury, London, UK, 2012. provides a foundation for the Trio project.

My role in the project was to explore the variations possible with three items: 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 group of 40 or so paintings completed in the period 2019-2026.

Furthermore, the Trio project spawned another project that used an alternative rule of one. It deconstructed the Trio to become the Solo project.