I start with the flailing of a mad dermish. I smear, splash, scrape, wipe, dribble, draw … all the while blending colors and strokes until something says that’s enough. There’s something there. Let it be. Come back to it later. I do.

Invariably I start to see shapes and patterns emerging through the chaos. Looking closely reveals recognizable things like figures, or plants, or animals. Or grand, mysterious unreal landscapes. Just as in life, I look for signs, hints, possibilities … the fruits of creativity.

It’s almost as if the canvas has to undergo the stresses and strains of living before it can reveal its truth. My job is to be an unbiased observer and let the inner life of the canvas play out. It’s as much about destruction as it is creation. Throw something on the wall and see if it sticks. Tear it down and start over if it doesn’t.

The task is to nurture the little art baby into adulthood without smothering it with your biases and preconceived notions. The trick is to allow the canvas to speak in its own voice and language.

About this painting:

Kingdom Come evokes themes of interconnectedness, cultural richness, and the serene acceptance of diversity within a chaotic and dynamic world. The giraffe, a majestic and iconic creature, may symbolize grace, vision, and an elevated perspective on life. The African woman, with her eyes closed in serene contemplation, represents a sense of introspection and inner peace. Her vibrant blue and pink scarf adds an element of cultural adornment, possibly signifying tradition, identity, or a spiritual connection. The blending of disparate elements evokes a sense of awe and wonder, inviting viewers into a realm where the boundaries between reality and imagination blur.

Purchase Kingdom Come at John Gerstner.com