Abstract Artist
About
Abstract Process
perception, intuition, interpretation
Through mixed media abstract paintings, I strive to capture the physical essence of shells in junction with their relationship to the ocean. I interpret this by layering and interweaving visual elements together, using colors that both harmonize and contrast, a push and pull. I accentuate, generalize, and over exaggerate tangible nuances within each shell to create a fluid, yet complex conversation with the viewer. With each intentional mark I break down the shell’s elements, amplify highlights, discover its’ form, formation, and deformation.
Why Shells?
why, not, shells
Shells embody that moment of peace when the ocean’s calming fury consumes & rejuvenates, transporting me to the beach. Waves crashing and lapping, impressionistic sunrises, that deep breath of salty air with a bit of fishiness, sand under foot ever moving, ever changing by a tide that can’t seem to make up its mind but at the same time knows exactly what its goal is, what it is meant to do.
I am drawn to shells with perfect imperfections, possessing unique nuances, transformed by forces out of their control. Beaten and swallowed by the tide, brittle, pitted, and salted. On their way to becoming sand. Reaching beyond initial conception, these seashells have an unexpected beauty created by the unapologetic effects of nature. I am transcribing and interpreting something that represents survival, the continuation, and evolution of life. A moment in time paused for enjoyment by this one artist, to find, touch, interpret, paint, treasure.
Brief Bio
midwestern beach bum
Cincinnati based artist, Josie Kirby, creates abstract mixed-media paintings of objects that evoke an essence of portraiture. She received her BFA in 2000 from the University of Cincinnati, College of DAAP, where she became greatly influenced by abstract expressionism and the modernist movement. She has worked in the field of fine art framing and restoration since graduating college and now that her children are in their teens, she is focused on expanding her artistic exposure and gallery representation. Throughout her artistic career, Josie’s subject matter has evolved to reflect moments that bring her joy, which is evident through her bright color pallet. Her current abstractions of shells exhibit her love of the ocean through an interwoven compilation of layers. Josie recently had her art featured on the 2023 winter cover of Venue Cincinnati magazine along with an awarded 2-page spread.
