Pen and ink

A few of my sketches and studies of late.

Art and Essence

    Before I talk about art I have certain core philosophical beliefs that have a strong influence on how I view things.  I tend to give narrative, particularly the exploration of deeper meaning  a great deal of consideration. This is one that I feel is important in this instance. I am a firm supporter of narrative rationality. This is based on the work of Walter Fisher. It really revolves around a few core principles

• People are essentially storytellers.
• The world is a set of stories from among which we must choose in order to live in a process of continual re-creation.
• Each individual chooses the ones that match his or her values and beliefs. 
• Making decisions depends on judgments about these good reasons. Although people claim reasons for their decisions, such as history, culture, and perceptions about the status and character of the other people involved, all of these may be subjective and incompletely understood. The test of narrative rationality is based on the probability, coherence, and fidelity of the stories that underpin the immediate decisions to be made.

Here is the wiki that goes into more detail if you are interested. 
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Narrative_paradigm



     The exploration of design principles and elements has an important place as does the pursuit of concept and aesthetic.  I feel that regardless of how well composed, masterfully executed or evocative the soft sheen of warholian jism is on the lips of the indoctrinated the complete divorce of design from the spiritual, emotional or transcendent ultimately results in little more than a form of intellectual masturbation that only serves to further alienate art from the general public.

    In spite of my desire for some essential expression I can't disregard the need for a set of technical skills that supports the communication of these ideas. Please, for the love of the work continue to develop skills that will allow you to express your work with the respect it deserves. One of the quickest ways to loose my interest is by showing me that you didn't even care enough to bother to develop skills to support your message.

   Don't tell me how to think or feel about a subject. Show me how you feel. If I want to look at some mass market social awareness meme I have a multitude to choose from. I have a predisposition to dig in my heels when told I should do something that doesn't happen when someone shares a personal account.  Stop wasting our time by regurgitating someone's message on a generic raising awareness hot button topic. Show me how it effects you personally. Show me your Truth and I will travel with you.

I want deeper meaning.

I look for a fundamental connection with the the truth of a thing that goes beyond the surface.

I want exploration of the human condition.

I want insight on place and relationship.

I want to show and be shown a personal perspective.

This is important to me, it's how I connect and understand.

I believe that we have equally valid and often contradictory views. I can’t tell you what is right for you. I can only share my perspective. Find what speaks to you on some level and if others don’t agree, well… fuck them. After all who else can be the ultimate expert on what's best for you.

Ink Wash Images

These are a series I did for an advanced studio class. All are approximately 24" x 36"  on domestic etch . I used Moon Palace ink and brushes .

Guilford Groundhog

Not to be shown up by the oft lauded beaver the Guilford College groundhogs have resorted to brick and terracotta shelters. 

Senior Thesis

The following is a link to my web page that is a product of my Senior Thesis at Guilford College. It includes my Digital Paintings and Artist statement from our show Altered Thanks for the interest
https://guilford.digication.com/ChristopherAustin/Home//