Distracted by Abstraction

I am back into abstract painting. Continuing to explore abstraction is one of my "creative resolutions" for the new year. The question that arises for me is - what comes first - the painting or the title when doing  abstracts? Even more challenging is the question - are titles important or even necessary in abstract art? Is the emotional connection to the painting the thing, rather than a somewhat arbitrary title? Does the title help focus your response to a piece of abstract art? More on that later. Meanwhile there is an "Abstract Art Title Generator" to provide some tongue-in-cheek assistance at
ttp://noemata.net/pa/titlegen/.
The latest two paintings were completed before they were titled. As a result they are called "Abstraction 1" and "Abstraction 2". I should have used the "generator" which came up with "Component with Morphism" and "Ode to Quirky Insight". What do you think fits better?

 

Abstraction 1

Abstraction 2

                                                                        

 At all points in my painting life I shall content myself with the words of Eugène Delacroix who said that "Artists who seek perfection in everything are those who cannot attain it in anything." Just in case you think he's a slouch, check below.

Welcome a New Decade

I mentioned in a previous blog that I would think about "creativity resolutions" for the new year. This list will probably haunt me by next year and it  is not world- changing, but you have to make an effort.
In  2011
 I will paint more watercolour on Yupo paper, continue exploring abstract painting, particularly abstract landscapes, investigate the creative possibilities that collage offers, continue my series of "old men", try new acrylic techniques and look into all the options for watercolours without glass and frames.
PS. Visit more art galleries.

Good news for the new decade! According to Robert Genn, a Canadian painter who produces a regular newsletter called Painter's Keys, about art and other arty thoughts - "Fine art is on the way in. In our gadgety, thing-happy society where Walmart and creeping meatballism threaten, painting is hot. Old fashioned as the shoeing of horses--about the same methodology for the last six hundred years--art fills a vital human need for life enhancement. Art reboots the cerebral cortex, teaches new skills to underutilized hands, arouses dormant sensitivities and promotes latent passions. If need be, art gives us something to talk about besides the kids, grandkids and celebrities, hence making us more interesting people. And it's cheap--a month of art supplies for the average Daumier is about the same as a round of golf."

Think about art and click on this video link. The paintings of Van Gogh are set to music, the lyrics of which have been changed to reflect the art. Enjoy and happy new year!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dipFMJckZOM