Here and Now

FOREST VIEW, Russell Steven Powell oil on canvas, 20x16
Pylons 2, Russell Steven Powell oil on canvas, 16x20
Pylons 2, oil on canvas, 16×20

HERE AND NOW

Abstract 82, Russell Steven Powell oil on canvas, 30x24
Abstract 82, oil on canvas, 30×24

THERE IS a journalistic element to my artwork. I am telling a story in the best way I know how, about the age and place I live in, in something resembling real time.

Campsite, Russell Steven Powell oil on canvas, 16x12
Campsite, oil on canvas, 16×12

THIS IS both privilege and obligation. My job is to witness, record, and try to make sense of my experience — not just for my own edification, but to the benefit of others. My aim is to capture and share something of the beauty, love, and mystery I see and feel in this miraculous life, antidotes to fear and despair.

The inspiration for these stories is sometimes obvious, sometimes not. I can better express my inner world with pictures than words. The results are sometimes enigmatic, unfiltered and raw, but more honest, less self-serving than my heavily edited rationalizations.

Abstract 80, Russell Steven Powell oil on canvas, 24x36
Abstract 80, oil on canvas, 24×36

I PAINT every day. I work on several canvases at once, so that I can paint on one while others dry. I revisit earlier canvases that are either incomplete, incoherent, or simply not good enough, and I create new ones, inspired by the moment. 

Abstract 83, Russell Steven Powell oil on canvas, 11x14
Abstract 83, oil on canvas, 11×14

I LEARN something every day.

Tulip Garden, Russell Steven Powell oil on canvas, 20x16
Tulip Garden, oil on canvas, 20×16
Solidarity, Russell Steven Powell oil on canvas, 16x20
Solidarity, oil on canvas, 16×20
Abstract 81, Russell Steven Powell oil on canvas, 16x20
Abstract 81, oil on canvas, 16×20
Forest View, Russell Steven Powell oil on canvas, 20x16
Forest View, oil on canvas, 20×16

2 Replies to “Here and Now”

  1. “Thumbs Up” Russell.

    The structural elements combine well with your nonobjective, paint-driven style

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