Inspiration In The Natural World

Paintings by  Lee J. Nixon
 I am inspired by the skill and imagination abounding in the natural world. So, I have re-created the exquisite patterns found on trees, the intricate pattern of flowers and rolling hills with bundles of hay.

Several paintings were inspired by the application of natural elements such as: gravel and sand for 'actual' textures. Also, I have experimented with tissue paper to simulate the rugged textures of trees, to the solid mass of smooth rocks and stones.

By utilizing the science of optics, I often apply strokes of pure contrasting complementary colors to excite the viewer's eye so that the color appears to leap off the canvas.

Golden Nuggets of Orange

Youth Contemplating The Future

Colorful Winter Garden

Scenic View Alongside a Gravel Road

NEW LANDSCAPES FROM LOCAL SCENES

Strolling Down Old Rapidan Road

An original framed 16 x 20 acrylic painting on stretched canvas.
Memory Lane:
...as a teenager working for a neighbor (sheep farmer) who lived here
...holding sheep as the wool was sheared
...taking down an old railed fence
...removing rocks from the pasture
...cleaning and removing grass and debris from a clogged stream
riding on the back of the neighbor's tractor returning home
...jogging down memory lane

Painting techniques:
...usage of tissue paper for texture
...impasto
...complementary colors for simultaneous contrasts
...high contrasting lights and darks

On exhibition at  Art Upstairs, 112 w. Main Street Charlottesville, Virginia throughout the month of March.
Reception on Friday, March 5th from 5:00pm to 9:00pm

I welcome your comments

NEW LANDSCAPES FROM LOCAL SCENES

Radiant View Of Hollow Creek

An original framed 16 x 20 acrylic painting on

stretched canvas.

I was inspired by this radiant view in Dyke, Virginia on a narrow country road, named Mutton Hollow Creek. It was a bright sunny day in the fall, serenaded by brilliant light bathing the countryside.

The flowing stream invited my eager eyes into this splendid scene. Complementary greens and reds enhanced the dazzling harmonious arrangement of colors.

Textural surfaces patterns, and complementary colors reveal the beauty, permanence, and serenity of the planet earth.

Exhibition at the Upstairs Gallery
112 W. Main Street
Charlottesville, Virginia
Month of March
Reception on Friday, March 5th, 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm

I'm looking forward to reading your comments.
Lee J. Nixon

ACRYLIC PAINTING IS BENEFICIAL FOR COPING WITH STRESS

ACRYLIC PAINTING IS BENEFICIAL FOR COPING WITH STRESS

We live in a fast paced world that is highly stressful. Millions of dollars are spent annually to relieve the mind and body from tension. Webster's New World College Dictionary Fourth Edition defines stress as; the mental or emotional tension or strain characterized by feelings of anxiety, fear, etc.

Acrylic painting is beneficial

It has often been recommended that one should cultivate outside interests and break routine habits. Acrylic painting provides such an interest as it offers many persons, young or old, an inexpensive way to manage stress. Painting provides a fine opportunity for wholesome relaxation, along with the joy of creativity.

Observation as an Art Teacher

As an Art Teacher for thirty plus years, I have observed art students suffering from; broken hearts, the pain of having separated or divorced parents, or dealing with a debilitating illness. Acrylic painting provides a constructive avenue for students to release such destructive feelings of worthlessness or guilt. It is interesting and alarming to see slashes of acrylic paint, usually dark morbid colors, streak or slash across a canvas from one in a melancholic mood. Eventually,( depending on the degree of stress) it is a joy to see a little more brightness, then more brightness, then finally with bright light colors dominating.

Acrylic painting is relaxing

So view painting as a means of relaxation, as a mean of relieving stress and anxiety. Just remember that your goal is to release the tension that you have accumulated over a period of time. So do not be concerned about creating a pretty picture, as that will come later when you are relieved of such destructive feelings of hopelessness and anxiety. Also try painting outdoors, if you can find a quiet serene place. Such an environment will enhance your enjoyment!

Are you ready? Take a deep breath, exhale, and pick up your brush and let the acrylics flow across the canvas.

Did you like this article? Please send me your comments, as it will inspire me to keep writing.