Lollipop Garden, 20″ x 24″, Oil on Canvas, 2011

From the Garden Angel series opening at Sharon Weiss Gallery, Friday April 1st. The reception is from, 6-9PM.

Craig Carlisle “Garden Angels”
Sharon Weiss Gallery
April 1 – 30, 2011

Artist Statement:

For my art to remain passionate, I have always felt that each painting must be infused with optimism and serenity. With this new series entitled “Garden Angels” one thing is evident, embodiment of the paint has taken on a new dimension. Whether through the light or the dark, these luscious atmospheric paintings are intended to evoke lasting emotion. Each articulates an enduring image, while juxtaposing a complexity of surface.

Though not foreign to my studio work, there comes a time when an artist must push forward, expanding upon previous techniques. These sculpturally painted expressions begin to break down personal barriers, while retaining a signature style.

These new works are an impasto style application utilizing a variation of heavy paint as a way to build the surface. Each piece represents an addition/subtraction method with the paint being applied using hand made tools and brushes. A more instant approach is felt with these expressive paintings, something I both needed and wanted to experience.

For each painting to come to fruition I found there were moments where I had to surrender something of value. In several cases this was the removal of a treasured element, knowing I must paint over or eliminate that one stroke I held so dear to my heart. Inevitably there are no mistakes in painting, only results that are found in retrospect.

The “Garden Angels” series expresses the now – the today, possibly a reaction to our societies need for the instant, but with the intention of creating something longer lasting.

-Craig Carlisle

Thanks to Big Heart Design for all the work in creating an invaluable update for craigcarlisle.com! As some of you may have witnessed in the past couple of weeks, the site had experienced some downtime for restructuring. BHD spent countless hours completing a security update, and installed the most current software which will now make for a stronger and better visual experience. Please accept my apology for any challenging issues you may have had recently attempting to access the site. A review of the new features on the site will soon be discussed here on the Blog.