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Oils, by michaeldubina
Bloomington, IL US

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Description:
Artist Statement On the Beveled Canvas: Sometimes I think of my paintings in terms of theatre, where a dramatic story is unfolding on stage before an audience. Low horizon lines allow for the description of dominant skies while creating a sense of expansiveness in my work. Through the use of glazes I achieve a glowing ambient light that subtly graduates to darkness. All objects, trees, and buildings are illuminated from behind, enhancing the drama. The lone tree and the weathered tree are important, often repeated motifs symbolizing the struggle of the individual and of overcoming adversity. My oil paintings are done on a beveled canvas that lifts the central picture plane three inches off the wall. This element gives the painting a certain physical presence, turning it into an object that extends into space, physically engaging the viewer. The beveled edges are darkened so that the luminosity of the sky emanates from the center of the painting. It is the dichotomy of light and dark that plays a central role in my work. Through these contrasts I hope to make my viewers aware of and contemplate the struggles that may exist in their own lives. The vitality of a painting in my mind rests not in its ability to answer questions, but rather to provoke them. Michael Dubina

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