Russell Sharon

Russell Sharon

My paintings are inspired by nature and lean toward the abstract. In the fine line between abstraction and representation lies the possibility of capturing the response one feels. I am able to make unusual markings in my paintings by making the tools that I use to paint. These tools make it possible for me make new discoveries as I apply paint and remove paint to reveal previous surfaces. When I start a painting, I enter a state of focused concentration that does not reflect the swings of mood and emotions that I feel in my daily life. I am searching for spontaneity, for the unexpected and then to express it in rough textured colored layers. This heightens the sculptural and sensual quality of the painting.
What am I looking for? On the beach a pebble catches my eye, I pick it up and slip it into my pocket. It is the meaning or message of that pebble that I want to convey in my work.

I make abstract sculptures with wood. I cut the wood roughly exposing its essential qualities, its grain, its slivery, rough, natural qualities. I cut the wood with curving graceful strokes, never straight or angular ones.
What am I looking for? When I walk through the forest, I see the trunk of an old tree. It tells the story of its life.
I want to tell the story of the wood that I work with.

I have recently completed portraits of one hundred people who live in my community. These paintings will be exhibited as a group. Each person represents a unique energy and character.
What am I looking for? I walk into a market, the cashier greets me in a way that reflects her spirit. I want the one hundred portraits together to reflect the spirit of my community.