Eight of the paintings that were exhibited in my show Vast at Galatea Fine Art.
Sea Change I, 24 x 18 in., Oil on canvas
Step In, 24 x 18 in., Oil on canvas
Seeing Through, 24 x 18 in., Oil on canvas
Sea Change II, 24 x 18 in., Oil on canvas
Beguiling Blue, 24 x 18 in., Oil on canvas
Bleu Nuit, 24 x 18 in., Oil on canvas
I Wanted Wings, 24 x 18 in., Oil on canvas
Ebb and Flow, 48 x 36 in., Oil on canvas
Artist Statement
Vast
I gaze at the ocean, a mysterious and constantly changing reflection of its surroundings.
Light and motion create shifting patterns that imply a path to somewhere. My mind travels out to sea, lost in a water reverie.
Wild and tranquil, threatening and beautiful, the ocean is both intimately personal and infinitely universal.
Oh, to have that feeling of serenity from being on, in, or just near water.
I hear the waves as I paint.
-BKGibbs
My interest in seascapes reflects the 19th century romantic concept of finding solace in the beauty of nature, and current research that shows being around water provides a long list of benefits for our mind and body. The contemporary issue of human responsibility for the destruction of our oceans contrasts with our need for water. Sadly, we are killing the very element that gives us life.
On first glance the work may appear photographic, yet on closer look my oil paintings may reveal brushstrokes, unexpected color, and abstract detail of the water. These Ocean Field paintings have no horizon or reference to scale and lack human presence. The compositions could easily extend beyond the physical edge of the painting. An emotional narrative ̶ the vast ocean.
