”, a painting that has been an ongoing process over the span of eight years is a photograph of the “God Bless” Band. Some psychologists will argue that the relationship between father and son is unsettled and is reflected in this portrait causing the piece to be uncompleted. Hanna, however, opposes this. His intent is to add in the drums, from the photo. One should also consider that creating art is an emotional experience that cannot be forced but felt, an action that derives from impulse and Hanna believes that there is no specific time that a piece has to be completed. </p>
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A technique that is used constantly and delivers a great affinity in Hanna’s work is the yin and yang concept, along with the grid pattern laid down as the foundation of the piece. The use of the yin and the yang plays the balancing act of light and dark, composition and this application is evident. The strokes of the paintbrush and the rub of charcoal onto canvas are all taken into consideration. The visibility of the grid in this painting gives a glimpse into the artists’ creative process. It is placed above the portrait allowing him to assess the balance and proportional mechanism of the work a means to settle the sense of chaos. Though the grid is visible in this piece it is normally hidden in some layers in other artwork. Hanna’s successful use of these techniques keeps the viewer’s eyes wondering and dancing across the canvas not able to focus on one particular area, because the pieces works together as a whole.
Viewing this portrait of Hanna’s Father gives a glimpse into the Happy Birthday to Me Kendal Hanna Retrospective Exhibition and is a cohesive blend of what this exhibition is about, abstract expressionism and portraiture.
-AW
This book is available at the NAGB Art Library and available for purchase at the Mixed Media Gallery Store.
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I'm glad that the NAGB finally has a blog!
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