Mixed media artist John Wesley presents a compelling collection of boldly colorful abstract paintings. Visit his website to see more of his portfolio.
“Finding Myself” acrylic and spray paint on two canvases, 48″ x 60″ total
I like the labels on all the items in my refrigerator to face the same way, and I try to make my closet look like one of those ads in home magazines for closet organizers. Not sure if it’s the Libra in me or some other unrecognized contributing factor, but I can be a bit anal in some areas of my life. Everything has its place, symmetry matters and clean lines are preferred.
“The Blues” oil and acrylic on canvas, 36″ x 48″
But when I paint it allows me, and sometimes forces me, to free myself from those restrictions and experiment with the chaos. The end product must still be visually appealing to me, but I’m free to push past those mental constraints and be okay with the result.
“Pop Culture” acrylic and spray paint on canvas, 36″ x 36″
Many of my works are created using only acrylic paint, but I also incorporate oils, spray paints, charcoal, pencil and ink. I’m no stranger to bright colors and not married to any particular style.
“Basic Arithmetic” acrylic on canvas, 24″ x 36″
For me, inspiration comes from the beauty that I see in the world, which can come in various different forms. But I’m not generally attempting to recreate that beauty. It may be a bit egotistical, but I paint in an attempt to add to the beauty of the world. Some write. Some sing. I paint.
“Hummingbird” acrylic on canvas, 36″ x 48″
My artistic journey has taken me through many different phases. Currently my works are generally a reflection of the mood I’m in at the time. Happy, excited, reflective, sad, appreciative, heartbroken, silly, contemplative, whatever it is, it’s going on a canvas.
“Silence the Chatter” acrylic and spray paint on two canvases, 36″ x 48″ total
A lot of times the mood is simply “creative” and I’m just choosing a color scheme and seeing what the end product turns out to be. Some of my works though, do actually have an end goal in mind. They generally represent something I’ve seen and find beautiful and many incorporate and satisfy my love of clean lines and sharp angles.
“In the City” acrylic and spray paint on canvas, 36″ x 48″
What do I want to say with my art? I don’t think I have one cohesive message. Each piece is subject to interpretation and my only hope is that it says something to you, even if your reaction is “I don’t like it.” You looked at it long enough to provide feedback and that’s all I can ask for.
“Powering Through” acrylic on canvas, 36″ x 48″
Now if you like a particular piece enough to want to purchase it and display it in your own home or office that would be absolutely wonderful too!!
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