Gaping Maw 11/25/2023
Subjective Human Experience
I demand the proof of conscious decisions exemplified by a physical presence in my painting. This can be accomplished by avoiding all deliberate attempts to fabricate an illusion of representation with the use of any medium. Representation, in this context, is referring to any and all aspects of the observable nature world that can be captured, depicted or reproduced by any means. In order to successfully maximize the potential of this concept while minimizing the unnecessary artifacts left behind by subconscious decisions, I recognize that certain arbitrary decisions should be made so that the painting survives the creation process and can conveniently exist as a functional painting. This also includes accounting for the paradox of the “Self-Devouring Painting”. This is referencing the inescapable truth that any painting, which is physically produced, is vulnerable to being reproduced, thus converting the original painting into a reference for the new piece and potentially manifesting a new symbol represented by the original piece. This scenario exemplifies the arbitrary boundaries that can be set for what can be considered “representational” as to not devolve into a philosophical debate as to what is objective imagery.
The subconscious urge to perform a familiar motion during the application of paint as a result of the innate human desire to manifest a recognizable presence of observable nature presents a major challenge as it should be avoided at all costs. There will certainly be a struggle in any attempt to not desperately grasp for the comfort of retreating into imagery and familiar subjects while creating this painting. Exploration and limit texting of these rules should allow for further development of approaching the goal of the “ultimate” for this specific concept. The process for the production of these paintings are ultimately a means to an end, this should prove that the painting is only a reference to itself and no external factors.