Revel and Rejoice – Abstract on Canvas by Beverly Claridge

The Concept ‘Revel and Rejoice’

‘Revel and Rejoice’ marks the recognition of  resilience and the joy derived from overcoming adversity and is a part of my ‘Moving On’ collection.  The series evidences my own growth and transformation during my year long plunge into abstraction.  The absence of concrete imagery allows for a more profound connection each viewer’s own experiences, celebrating growth and freedom as a universal theme. Each mark and colour choice symbolises different aspects of joy and liberation.

Color and Emotion: The Palette of ‘Revel and Rejoice’

‘Revel and Rejoice’  stands as a testament to the power of colour for evoking a spectrum of emotions. As a colourist, I love the vibrant yellows, oranges, and reds almost cheering on the canvas, infusing the work with a sense of joy, optimism, and vitality. These warm colours are known for their ability to uplift and stimulate feelings of happiness and excitement.
Cooler shades of blues and greens are necessary to instil a sense of calm and tranquility. The interplay between warm and cool colours creates a dynamic visual experience that seeks to engage.

Techniques and Mediums in ‘Revel and Rejoice’

Layering is a fundamental technique in ‘Revel and Rejoice’ and, indeed, each of the works within ‘Moving On’ series.  Applying multiple layers of oil-based ink, then waiting….and waiting even longer for the ink to set before adding oil pastel stick, and Caron D’Ache crayons was a huge test of resolve. Then it was time to play by scraping through each layer with my old palette knife to reveal previous layers.  I appreciate the depth and texture of this technique, which to my thinking, is an apt analogy of the complexity and richness of the human experience. The process of layering mirrors the way individuals build upon past experiences, finding joy and growth in each new layer of life.