Stephen Ursino
Only 3 Colors: Blue, Black, and White…
Opening Reception: Saturday, September 20, 6-9pm
The abstract oil paintings in this collection were made using just these three colors.
In creating this series, I wanted a cohesive body of work both for simplicity and complexity. Black and white were both fundamental and necessary choices given their inherent ability to create contrast and depth as well as highlight and shade. Blue on the other hand was unanimously chosen for its natural ability to calm and relax through its association with the expansive nature of sky and ocean. Armed with these three colors my transformation began.
I had no idea how compelling, powerful and liberating the juxtaposition of these three colors would become. There was no apparent boundary or limit in their ability to conjure up arousing portraits, figures, expressions, and forms. Painting with these three colors was pure joy. The myriad of personalities they emoted was endless. It truly felt as if I was merely a vessel directing this newfound energy onto canvas.
HOW THE PAINTINGS WERE CREATED:
Each blank canvas was first painted with a mixture of white and a tiny spec of blue to create the backdrop for the subject to erupt onto. Black was then applied first with various sized metal palette knives to create the base outlines, the flow, and to create a general formation. White was applied next to juxtapose areas of black and to allow the initial formation to smear and meld together. Lastly, blue was applied to allow the painting to come to life. Once these three colors were employed, I could begin to see how the painting would finish. The destination was realized and the painting was completed.
Stephen’s process incorporates palette and taping knives, screwdrivers, homemade metal applicators, razor blades, chip brushes, and his bare hands to achieve an almost three-dimensional ensemble of heavily juxtaposed layers of colorful oil paint.
All of the artwork in Stephen’s Blue Moon Collection is available for purchase. Call or text 224-388-7948 to make a purchase inquiry.
On view through October 25 | Open Saturdays 1-4pm
“My paintings are engaging and inviting. Each painting sets me and my viewers on course for a whimsical journey of discovery.” — Stephen Ursino
Stephen is presenting an Artist Talk on Saturday, September 27 from 1:30-3:30pm during gallery hours. Join us to learn more about this fascinating artist and his passion for abstract art.
3 Strange Days 18 x 24 Oil on Canvas $600 (framed in black wood)
Canine Supervision 24 x 18 Oil on Canvas $600 (framed in black wood)
Consummation Blues 24 x 18 Oil on Canvas $600 (framed in black wood)
Big Kiss 24 x 20 Oil on Canvas $ (framed in black wood)
Trouble Ahead 24 x 36 Oil on Canvas $1600 (Black Wood Artist Made Frame)
Broken 24 x 36 Oil on Canvas $1600 (Black Wood Artist Made Frame)
Iconic 30 x 40 Oil on Canvas $2400 (Black Wood Artist Made Frame)
XO 40 x 30 Oil on Canvas $2400 (Black Wood Artist Made Frame)
Stephen Ursino