Artist Statement

Over the course of 25 years, I have developed my own technique for painting that emphasizes the use of natural forces to control the paint. Unlike traditional methods that rely on brushes or palette knives, my goal is to create art that captures the intricate and complex patterns of nature in a purely organic way. Through my work, I aim to create a natural event on the canvas that incorporates the same forces that have created all life in the universe.

To achieve this, I treat the paint as a living organism that evolves and changes over time, developing a complex organic structure. I use a range of natural forces – including forced air, vibration, gravity, water, and chemicals – to guide and nurture the paint as it evolves. In doing so, I work in harmony with the paint, allowing it to develop its own unique form much like a single cell evolves into a plant or animal.

Throughout the process, I rely on basic laws of aesthetics and principles of design to guide me, but the end result is always somewhat unpredictable. This unpredictability makes each painting a completely unique and individual work of art – much like all forms of life are unique and individual.

Ultimately, my goal is to create something that is naturally beautiful, reflecting the complex and intricate life we all share. By using the same natural forces that have shaped the world around us, I seek to create art that evokes a sense of wonder and awe, inspiring others to appreciate the beauty and power of the natural world.

Gary Barnett 2023