"Transcend" by JFeelgood is an evocative acrylic painting measuring 20x24x1 inches. The artwork portrays a solitary figure sitting on a dock, gazing at a radiant, swirling orb that dominates the sky. This orb could represent the sun or a personal symbol of profound reflection, such as an inner light or a manifestation of pain. The painting’s deep blue background sets a tranquil scene, evoking a sense of calm and infinity, while the dock and waves below anchor the viewer to the physical world.


The swirling orb, rendered in rich golden and white hues, captures the viewer’s attention as the focal point of the composition. It exudes a powerful energy that contrasts with the calm posture of the seated figure. This juxtaposition suggests a moment of deep introspection, where the observer is contemplating the complexities and dualities of life. The orb’s brilliance symbolizes a beacon of hope, enlightenment, or the intense emotions that one must confront and transcend.


The figure on the dock, painted in subdued, reflective tones, invites viewers to imagine themselves in this meditative state, pondering their own existence and purpose. The gentle ripples of the water and the stillness of the figure underscore the theme of finding peace and clarity amidst the vastness and turmoil of life.


"Transcend" encourages viewers to look inward, to confront and embrace their inner light and darkness, and to emerge stronger and more enlightened. It’s a powerful visual metaphor for personal growth and the journey towards becoming a brighter, more fulfilled version of oneself.


This painting is also featured in his book, 'Thought Entropy', available for purchase on Amazon.

Color is one of the most powerful tools in an artist's arsenal, and this is especially true in abstract art. Without the constraints of representational imagery, color takes on a central role, guiding the viewer’s emotions and interpretations. As an artist, understanding color theory allows you to create compositions that resonate on a deeper level, conveying complex ideas and feelings through the interplay of hues, contrasts, and relationships.
In this guide, we’ll explore the fundamentals of color theory in the context of abstract art, providing insights and techniques to help you master the use of color in your work.
The Basics of Color TheoryAt its core, color theory is the study of how colors interact with one another. It encompasses a range of principles, including the color wheel, color relationships, and the psychological effects of color. For abstract artists, these principles offer a roadmap to creating visually harmonious or intentionally discordant compositions.
The Color Wheel:
The color wheel is a circular diagram that organizes colors according to their relationships. It’s divided into primary colors (red, blue, yellow), secondary colors (green, orange, purple), and tertiary colors (those created by mixing a primary with a secondary color). Understanding the color wheel is essential for grasping how different hues can work together or contrast in a composition.
Color Relationships:
Color relationships describe how colors interact with each other on the color wheel. Some key relationships include:

• Complementary Colors: Colors opposite each other on the color wheel (e.g., red and green). When used together, complementary colors create high contrast and can make each other appear more vibrant.
  
• Analogous Colors: Colors next to each other on the color wheel (e.g., blue, blue-green, and green). Analogous colors tend to harmonize well and are often used to create soothing, cohesive compositions.
  
• Triadic Colors: A trio of colors evenly spaced around the color wheel (e.g., red, yellow, and blue). Triadic color schemes are balanced yet dynamic, offering a strong visual impact.
  

The Psychological Effects of Color:
Colors have the ability to evoke specific emotions and moods. For example, warm colors like red and orange are often associated with energy, passion, and warmth, while cool colors like blue and green evoke calm, tranquility, and sadness. Abstract artists can leverage these associations to convey particular emotions or atmospheres in their work.
Using Color in Abstract ArtIn abstract art, color is more than just a visual element—it’s a means of communication. By carefully selecting and combining colors, you can guide the viewer's emotional response and highlight the underlying themes of your piece.
1. Creating Contrast with Complementary Colors
Contrast is a powerful tool in abstract art, and complementary colors are an effective way to achieve it. By placing two complementary colors next to each other, you can create a sense of vibrancy and tension. This can draw the viewer’s attention to specific areas of the composition or evoke a dynamic, energetic mood.
Tip: Use complementary colors sparingly to avoid overwhelming the viewer. Instead, focus on one dominant color and use its complement as an accent to create contrast.
2. Building Harmony with Analogous Colors
Analogous colors offer a more subtle approach to color harmony. Because they are closely related, they blend seamlessly, creating a sense of unity and calm. This can be particularly effective in abstract pieces that aim to evoke serenity or introspection.
Tip: When working with analogous colors, consider varying the intensity or saturation of each color to add depth and interest to your composition without sacrificing harmony.
3. Exploring Emotional Depth with Color Temperature
Color temperature refers to the warmth or coolness of a color. Warm colors like red, yellow, and orange are often associated with emotions such as excitement, passion, and warmth, while cool colors like blue, green, and purple can evoke calm, sadness, or contemplation.
In abstract art, you can use color temperature to convey a specific emotional tone. A warm color palette might suggest a sense of vitality and energy, while a cool palette could evoke a feeling of peace or melancholy.
Tip: Experiment with mixing warm and cool colors to create complex emotional landscapes within your work. The contrast between warm and cool tones can add layers of meaning and invite viewers to engage with the piece on a deeper level.
4. Playing with Saturation and Value
Saturation (the intensity of a color) and value (the lightness or darkness of a color) are crucial aspects of color theory that can dramatically affect the mood of your abstract art. High saturation can create bold, eye-catching compositions, while low saturation offers a more subdued, contemplative effect. Similarly, varying the value within a piece can create depth, contrast, and focus.
Tip: Use high saturation to highlight key areas of your composition, and experiment with low saturation to create background elements that recede into the canvas. Mixing values within a single color can also add dimension and movement to your work.
ConclusionMastering color theory is essential for any abstract artist who wants to create compelling and emotionally resonant work. By understanding the relationships between colors and the psychological impact they have, you can harness the full power of color to express your ideas and connect with your audience.
Remember, color in abstract art is not just about aesthetics—it’s about communication. Each hue, contrast, and combination tells a story, evokes a feeling, and invites interpretation. As you continue to explore the possibilities of color in your art, embrace the freedom to experiment and let your intuition guide you. After all, the beauty of abstract art lies in its ability to transcend the literal and tap into the profound, often wordless, language of color.

"Equality" by JFeelgood is a vibrant and thought-provoking 18x24 acrylic painting on canvas that explores themes of balance and harmony through abstract and figurative elements. The composition features a stylized human figure with flowing lines and shapes that intertwine, creating a sense of unity and interconnectedness.


The background is a rich tapestry of blues, with varying shades and textures that create depth and movement. This blue backdrop serves as a canvas for the bold red lines that outline the figure, adding contrast and highlighting the subject's form. The use of red and blue together symbolizes the blending of different elements to achieve balance, a core concept of equality.


One of the most striking features of the painting is the plant-like structure growing from the figure's head, culminating in a radiant flower. This element suggests growth, enlightenment, and the natural progression towards equality and understanding. The presence of small leaves and the radiant flower further emphasizes the theme of flourishing and positive transformation.


The abstract elements, such as geometric shapes and lines scattered throughout the background, add an additional layer of complexity to the piece. These shapes, painted in shades of yellow and green, introduce a sense of dynamism and energy, complementing the serene yet powerful presence of the central figure.


JFeelgood's "Equality" is a visually engaging and symbolically rich painting that invites viewers to reflect on the importance of balance and harmony in the pursuit of equality. The artist's use of color, form, and abstract elements creates a compelling narrative that resonates on multiple levels.


This painting is also featured in JFeelgood's book, "Thought Entropy," available for purchase on Amazon.

"Black Cat" by JFeelgood is a charming 16x20 acrylic painting on canvas that captures a quiet, contemplative moment. The composition features a simple yet evocative scene of a black cat sitting by a window, gazing out into the world. The cat is positioned within a purple-hued window, which stands out against the softer pastel tones of the building's exterior.


The upper portion of the painting depicts a building with a repetitive pattern of yellow-lit windows, suggesting an urban setting at dusk or night. The angled roof, painted in a gradient of blues, adds depth and perspective to the scene. The contrast between the warm yellow windows and the cool blues and purples creates a harmonious balance, adding to the overall tranquility of the piece.


The black cat, with its sleek silhouette and bright, attentive eyes, serves as the focal point of the painting. Its presence adds a sense of mystery and curiosity, inviting viewers to imagine the stories and scenes unfolding beyond the window. The simplicity of the composition, combined with the thoughtful use of color and form, makes "Black Cat" a visually engaging and emotionally resonant work of art.


This painting is also featured in JFeelgood's book, "Thought Entropy," available for purchase on Amazon.

Abstract art is a revolutionary form of artistic expression that defies traditional representation, inviting viewers into a world where form, color, and texture take center stage. As an artist, I've found that abstract art opens up endless possibilities for creative exploration, allowing both the artist and the viewer to interpret meaning on a deeply personal level. But what exactly is abstract art? In this post, we'll dive into its concept, history, and key characteristics to help you understand this fascinating art form.

The Concept of Abstract Art: At its core, abstract art is about breaking away from the literal depiction of the world. Unlike representational art, which aims to accurately portray objects, people, or scenes, abstract art focuses on the elements of art themselves—such as color, line, shape, and texture. These elements are often exaggerated, simplified, or entirely removed from their real-world context, creating compositions that may not resemble anything we recognize.
Abstract art is often described as "non-representational" or "non-objective" because it doesn’t attempt to represent reality. Instead, it seeks to evoke emotions, thoughts, and sensations through the arrangement of visual elements. This allows for a more personal and subjective experience, where each viewer can find their own meaning in the work.

The History of Abstract Art: The origins of abstract art can be traced back to the early 20th century, a time of great social, political, and technological change. Artists began to question the traditional boundaries of art, seeking new ways to express the complexities of modern life. This period saw the birth of several avant-garde movements, each contributing to the development of abstract art.
   One of the pioneers of abstract art was Wassily Kandinsky, a Russian painter who believed that art should be free from the constraints of representation. In 1910, Kandinsky created what is considered one of the first purely abstract paintings, using color and form to express spiritual and emotional truths.
  Around the same time, artists like Kazimir Malevich and Piet Mondrian were also exploring abstraction. Malevich’s "Suprematism" focused on basic geometric shapes and pure color, while Mondrian’s "De Stijl" movement emphasized simplicity and order through a grid of vertical and horizontal lines.
  Abstract art continued to evolve throughout the 20th century, with movements like Abstract Expressionism, which emerged in the 1940s and 1950s. Artists like Jackson Pollock and Mark Rothko pushed the boundaries of abstraction, using bold colors, dynamic brushstrokes, and large-scale compositions to convey raw emotion and energy.

Key Characteristics of Abstract Art: Abstract art is incredibly diverse, but there are several key characteristics that are commonly associated with this art form:

1. Emphasis on Visual Elements:
Abstract art places a strong emphasis on the basic visual elements of art—color, line, shape, form, and texture. These elements are often manipulated in unconventional ways to create compositions that are visually striking and thought-provoking.

2. Lack of Recognizable Subject Matter:
In abstract art, the subject matter is often ambiguous or completely absent. This lack of recognizable imagery allows the viewer to focus on the visual experience rather than trying to identify or interpret specific objects or scenes.

3. Experimentation and Innovation:
Abstract art encourages experimentation with materials, techniques, and forms. Artists often push the boundaries of traditional art practices, using unconventional tools and methods to create their work.

4. Emotional and Spiritual Expression:
Many abstract artists aim to convey emotions, spiritual ideas, or philosophical concepts through their work. The non-representational nature of abstract art allows for a deeper exploration of the human experience, often evoking strong emotional responses from viewers.

5. Subjective Interpretation:
Because abstract art doesn’t rely on a clear narrative or recognizable imagery, it invites subjective interpretation. Each viewer may see something different in an abstract piece, depending on their own experiences, emotions, and imagination.

Conclusion: Abstract art is a dynamic and ever-evolving form of artistic expression that has challenged traditional notions of what art can be. By focusing on the elements of art itself—color, line, shape, and texture—abstract artists create works that are open to interpretation, allowing viewers to engage with the art on a personal level.

Understanding the concept, history, and characteristics of abstract art can deepen your appreciation for this unique art form. Whether you’re an artist or an art enthusiast, abstract art offers a limitless landscape for exploration and creativity. It’s a reminder that art is not just about what we see, but about how we feel and think—and how those feelings and thoughts can be transformed into something visual.
  When I was a younger artist painting at my studio off 13th Street by Southwestern University, from time to time Professors of the Fine Arts would stop by to visit. I would invite them paint or write on the walls of my studio, and one left a message that stayed with me forever, "Paint thought, not things." As you explore abstract art, I encourage you to embrace the freedom it offers. Let go of the need to find meaning in every brushstroke or color choice, and instead, allow yourself to experience the work on an emotional and intuitive level. After all, abstract art is about the journey, not the destination.

"Maybe in Paris" by JFeelgood is a whimsical 16x20 acrylic painting on canvas that exudes a playful and surreal charm. The composition features a stylized figure of a woman standing beside a large pink rectangle filled with musical notes on staff lines. The background is a simple gradient of grey, allowing the vibrant pink and yellow elements to stand out prominently.


The woman, painted in a minimalist style with exaggerated features, gazes out with wide blue eyes and bold red lips. She wears a form-fitting black outfit, and her blonde hair is drawn with quick, light strokes, giving it a sense of movement. Her casual stance, with one leg bent and arm resting on the musical staff, adds a touch of nonchalance and confidence to her demeanor.


The large pink rectangle, serving as a backdrop, is filled with black musical notes, suggesting a theme of music and creativity. A bright yellow sun is depicted to the left, its rays extending outward, adding a cheerful and warm element to the scene.


The title "Maybe in Paris" evokes a sense of romance and adventure, as if the woman is lost in thought or daydreaming about a musical escapade in the City of Light. The painting's combination of playful imagery and vibrant colors creates a delightful and engaging piece that invites viewers to explore its narrative.


This painting is also featured in JFeelgood's book, "Thought Entropy," available for purchase on Amazon.

"Chill Out or Else" by JFeelgood is a striking 16x20 acrylic painting on canvas that combines elements of surrealism and contemporary art. The painting features bold, expressive text and figures that convey a powerful and somewhat humorous message.


The phrase "CHILL OUT OR ELSE" is prominently displayed in large, block letters, painted in vibrant blue with black accents, creating a sense of urgency and emphasis.
Above the text, a nude figure of a woman is depicted lying horizontally, extending her arm to grab the neck of a man standing to the left. The man's expression suggests shock or discomfort, while the woman's calm demeanor contrasts sharply, adding a layer of irony to the directive. The use of minimalistic strokes and a limited color palette, primarily blues, blacks, and flesh tones, draws attention to the composition's central elements and message.


The painting's background remains understated, allowing the bold figures and text to dominate the viewer's attention. This piece showcases JFeelgood's ability to blend text and imagery to create a visually compelling narrative that is both thought-provoking and visually engaging.


This painting is also featured in JFeelgood's book, "Thought Entropy," available for purchase on Amazon.

"Sky Miles" by JFeelgood is a striking mixed media artwork that measures 30x22.5x12 inches. This piece combines acrylic, latex, and epoxy resin, beautifully framed to enhance its depth and visual impact. At the heart of the composition is a chrome airplane sculpture with moveable propellers, mounted directly onto the painted surface. The dynamic swirling patterns of green, blue, and white create a vibrant, energetic backdrop, suggesting the movement and turbulence of air currents in the sky.


The chrome airplane, with its sleek design and reflective surface, contrasts sharply against the abstract, fluid background, embodying the themes of travel and exploration. The moveable propellers add an interactive element, inviting viewers to engage with the piece and imagine the motion of flight. The meticulous layering of resin gives a glossy finish, amplifying the sense of depth and motion.


"Sky Miles" captures the essence of adventure and the allure of the open sky, encouraging viewers to reflect on their aspirations and the boundless possibilities of exploration. The interplay between the sturdy, crafted airplane and the fluid, swirling sky forms a harmonious narrative about the journey and the ever-changing landscapes we traverse.


This painting is also featured in his book, 'Thought Entropy', available for purchase on Amazon.

"Intrigued" by JFeelgood is a compelling 16x20 acrylic painting on canvas that captures a moment of curiosity and introspection. The painting features a striking portrait of a figure with a blue face, characterized by wide, expressive eyes and detailed facial features. The use of blue and orange hues contrasts sharply, creating a vivid and dynamic composition.


The figure's face is outlined in bold, dark lines, with orange accents highlighting the contours and adding depth to the expression. The background is an abstract swirl of vibrant orange and yellow strokes, enveloping the figure and creating a sense of movement and energy. This dynamic background contrasts with the calm, yet intense expression of the figure, emphasizing their sense of intrigue.


A small rectangular element in the bottom left corner of the painting, filled with a textured mix of blue and gold, adds an additional layer of complexity to the piece. This detail invites viewers to ponder its significance and how it relates to the figure's expression.


The overall composition of "Intrigued" combines elements of abstract and expressive portraiture, showcasing JFeelgood's ability to convey complex emotions through color and form.


This painting is also featured in JFeelgood's book, "Thought Entropy," available for purchase on Amazon.

"White Sands" by JFeelgood is a compelling mixed media artwork, measuring 26x22x3 inches, beautifully framed in an ornate antique frame. This piece uses acrylic and spray paint to depict a solitary figure standing amidst the expansive, ethereal landscape of White Sands, New Mexico. The painting captures the serene yet surreal quality of the location, with its vast, luminous dunes and the interplay of vibrant colors.


In the composition, a woman in a simple pink dress stands in stark contrast to the brilliant yellow and white sands that surround her. The sky is alive with swirling clouds painted in shades of blue and pink, evoking a sense of wonder and otherworldliness. The bold, dynamic strokes of yellow radiating from the horizon suggest the intense sunlight and the heat of the desert.


The use of an antique frame adds a layer of timelessness and depth to the piece, creating a juxtaposition between the contemporary subject and the classical presentation. The woman’s stance and gaze towards the horizon invite viewers to ponder the themes of solitude, exploration, and the boundless beauty of nature.


"White Sands" is a testament to JFeelgood's ability to blend vivid imagination with striking visual elements, making it a captivating addition to any art collection.


This painting is also featured in his book, 'Thought Entropy', available for purchase on Amazon.