Paddling Out to Happy Island

Karen Owsley Nease

oil on cradled wood panel
14.5 x 21.5 x 1.75 in

This painting, 'Paddling Out to Happy Island,' was intended to be a topographic map reminiscent of Pangaea. However, through serendipitous color choices and shapes, it evolved into what resembles a map of a small island, perfect for a camping adventure.

The painting embraces a playful exploration of form and color, where the unexpected outcomes of the artistic process are celebrated. The layers of paint, representing topographical contours, create a sense of depth and dimension, turning the painting into a tactile and immersive experience. The vibrant hues and organic shapes contribute to its whimsical character, inviting viewers to imagine the island as a real place.

By engaging with the formalist principles of texture and color, the painting transcends its initial concept to become a physical entity. The layered surface emphasizes the materiality of the work, underscoring the idea that the medium itself carries meaning. This piece continues the exploration of how detailed observation and artistic interpretation, grounded in formalism, can transform our perception of natural landscapes, blending the line between reality and imagination.

This piece was part of the "FOUND HORIZONS: Imagined Topographies" exhibition at the JHP Art Gallery.

Interested in This Piece?

To inquire about this painting, please contact Karen Nease directly:

• Email: Nease.Karen@gmail.com