Painting in Progress

Ryan McCarron

Dec 3

For my most recent assignment in Advanced Painting, I was given the prompt to create a piece using an "algorithm". This was a bit of a new concept to me since I usually start making art without a specific plan in mind.

In order for the painting to be based off an algorithm, I had to first map out an equation/sequence of my workflow. So I started with research, then what tolerance means to me, compile references, make sketches, think of intentions, do an underpainting, commit to a style, and all of this would add up to a piece that fits the theme. We were given three words to choose from which were (Injustice, Tolerance, or Ignorance). Originally I planned on utilizing portraiture or the human figure, but I thought I would challenge myself by creating a still life in order to display my idea.

As I compiled references, I found a handful of artists that I thought would help with my piece. For the window lighting I was inspired by Mondrian's earlier tree paintings. Overall, I was influenced by different colorful, post-impressionist still lives. I also recently helped hang the work of contemporary artist C. Martzloff. Being up close to her still lives gave me a few ideas, especially with the bright red underpainting and line work.

Because I don't have a direct still life to look off of, I am relying heavily on using shape/color design to my advantage. Ultimately, the painting is meant to display the conclusion of my algorithm. So this is my main point of reference. Although I still have many parts to alter and clean up, I am satisfied with how it is progressing and how my algorithm is influencing the piece.