Creating Naked Faces

Naked Faces     J. Plesh

acrylic on masonite      private collection

There are times my paintings evolve from a concept I originally envisioned to a finished work far removed from the original intent. I have no problem changing direction during the creative process. In fact, I enjoy the abstract uncertainties of this developmental process. Unlike the representational artist working from a photographic image or still life setup, my paintings evolve with a certain spontaneity and with total freedom of imagination - and yes, even accidental happenings.  Indeed, the painting becomes a creative journey with unplanned stops and sights, which sometimes lead to uncharted destinations.

When I first started the Naked Faces painting my vision and intention was to render three nuns walking. Stepping away from the painting periodically, as is my practice, to look and absorb and get deeper into the work, I saw not three faces but two breasts and a belly. With this vision I allowed creativity and exploration to change my direction and ultimate destination. I proceeded to add a head, arms and legs resulting in an expressionistic image of a nude. Upon inspection you will see faces in the breasts, the remnants of the start of my journey in the creation of a painting originally meant to depict three nuns.

Naked Faces is a perfect example of a journey changing direction midstream, taking me to uncharted territories. Such creative journeys should be embraced as they become explorations to new destinations and allow the imagination to soar.