T.O.K.Y.O.
(2011) 30" x 45"
Tokyo Triptych in Pink
(2011) 16" x 36"
Tokyo Lights in Blue
(2011) 12" x 16"
All the above paintings of Tokyo are based on this image. I fell in love with this composition of colourfully blinding lights.
Source: http://www.citypictures1.com/upload/files/actual/tokyo%20lights-410.jpg
NYC Timesquare
(2012) 50" x 70"
These paintings were inspired by my first trip to NYC, an experience that instilled in me an intense fascination for the architectural landscape of large metropolis, notably for NYC and Tokyo. I was captivated by the massive skyscrapers and blinding arrangement of lights.
In my egerness to capture the bustling energy of these cities, Acrylic paint proved to be the perfect medium. Starting with the traditional method of painting with paintbrushes, I then challenged myself to paint exclusively with a a palette knife. This not only forced me to work in layers day after day to create a richer texture that mimicked the rich textures of the buildings' surfaces, this technique invited a pixilated look that allowed me to exaggerate the sharp angles of the cityscape.
I never got tired of working from the same picture, because it gave me a chance to focus on exploring different colour palettes and layering techniques.
I felt that by painting the city, I was able to live momentarily in that environment. By studying the picture in detail, I was learning about the city that I dream of visiting one day.
