jude harzer fine art: NYC Jude's Work in Process

JUDE HARZER FINE ART

When we least expect it, life sets us a challenge to test our courage and willingness to change; at such a moment, there is no point in pretending that nothing has happened or in saying that we are not ready. The challenge will not wait. Life does not look back. A week is more than enough time for us to decide whether or not to accept our destiny.”~ Paul Coelho

A young and vital child knows no limit to his own will, and it is the only reality to him. It is not that he wants at the outset to fight other wills, but that they simply do not exist for him. Like the artist, he goes forth to the work of creation, gloriously alone.

Jane Harrison

Wednesday, July 15, 2009

NYC Jude's Work in Process

My initial painting is oversized : 18 ft wide x 6 ft high. I imagine that it may take months to finish completely. I have less than a month left in New York. Progress is slower than I imagined because, I never actually imagined this composition and the challenges it would present.

My process is often a stream of consciousness, as was this. I start with a few key, often disconnected, images of figures that I have photographed. Most of my figurative references are of persons that I know such as friends or family members. This particular piece features my daughter Christina in two poses and the daughters of friends. I have to remember to invite Aurelia and Sara, two of my "petite", beautiful models to the SVA exhibit so that they can see their portraits perhaps in NYC.This composition is evolving into a work that explores the empowerment of young women, a typical theme which I address. I was once told that my work excludes men and is intimidating to them. Obviously, that is a matter of perception and as a woman,and as a female child who struggled most of my life to discover my own "power" and strength, I simply would reply that I paint who and what I am. My work is reflective of my own personal experience.

I have limited my palette because I like the earthen, natural and somewhat "haunted" feel that it suggests. My focus will absolutely continue to be on the exploration of texture, pattern and merging these elements with the figure. Ultimately I would like to further dimensionalize this piece by adding actual textiles and sewn elements.I have slowed down so that I can work on making this composition cohesive. Every inch is important.

Many of the artists who have influenced my current work are Gustav Klimt,Faith Ringgold,William Morris ,Kathe Kollwitz,and Egon Schiele.
Here are some updated details of the composition. Funny, as I post them, I see obvious areas that need changing. When working close to a composition for long periods of time, the distortions that develop are often not apparent.Hmmm....I have to simply view this as a work in process.
Enjoy!