In my abstract expression of the Basenji dog, my vision is to distill the essence of the breed to its most fundamental core. I aim to step away from complex detail, focusing instead on translating the animal's unique characteristics into the language of color and form. This minimalistic, abstract approach evokes the quintessential traits of the Basenji - its natural hunting instinct, acute sense of smell, and its distinctive silhouette - without binding the viewer's perception to a literal interpretation.
I begin the painting process with broad, simplistic strokes, deliberately employing a roller to maintain the focus on the broader essence rather than intricate details. This approach lays the groundwork for my art, setting the stage for an exploration of minimalism and abstraction in capturing the essence of this remarkable breed.
With the Basenji's iconic leading nose in mind, I use gestural strokes to evoke its keen hunting instincts and acute olfactory sense. Dark, rich colors form the foundational layer, symbolizing the breed's inherent strength and determination.
The process of layering transparent colors over this base is a metaphor for the complex personality traits and behaviors that come to life when one looks beyond the Basenji's physical appearance. These layers build an abstract definition around the dog, subtly alluding to its form without limiting the interpretation to a literal depiction.
24 x 24 acrylic, pastel, gesso on wall board
Available on Saatchi