From Cocktail to Crucifix

Manhattan    J. Plesh

acrylic on masonite      24” x 48”

private collection

Allison & James Nestor

Crucifix I    J. Plesh

acrylic on masonite    24” x 48”

private collection

Marion Suderland

Crucifixes and cocktails. An odd combination, indeed. The tie-in in this case is that they are the subjects of two of my paintings. Much of my work represents my interests and lifestyle in a somewhat abstract way. The representational painter will work from a photograph or on location, replicating the image in their unique style and technique. But with my expressionistic pieces I paint what I imagine or feel, what I see in my mind’s eye. The resulting paintings are more symbolic than representational. For instance, my intent was not so much to make a Manhattan cocktail look like a Manhattan cocktail than it was to give my somewhat imagined expression of one; therefore I have rendered it in the semi-abstract. Likewise, the painting of the crucifix is more symbolic than accurate. The paintings allow the viewer to see and determine what they read into the painting. To me they’re clearly paintings of a Manhattan and a Crucifix. Yet to other viewers their eyes and mind are allowed, actually encouraged, to determine their own personal connection with the art.  As it should be.

Cheers and God Bless!