Does paper have an unconsciousness? When one randomly crumples paper, it is a partnership between the paper and the crumpler. The paper has its internal stresses and imperfections and the person who crumples the paper has his or her idiosyncrasies of strength and muscle balance in the hands. The result is a shared unconsciousness, an automatism.
This brings to mind the definition of surrealism:
“Psychic automatism in its pure state, by which one proposes to express — verbally, by means of the written word, or in any other manner — the actual functioning of thought. Dictated by thought, in the absence of any control exercised by reason, exempt from any aesthetic or moral concern.” (Surrealist Manifesto (1924))
In my study below, I crumpled my paper randomly, without thought. However, I was conscious of the placement of the colors, based on the texture of the prepared paper. On balance, my painting fits the definition of a surrealistic work.
Automatism
14″x11″ 90# Cold Pressed Watercolor Paper
This is another fine series, Jack. (K)
Thanks, Kerfe! ;>)
I never thought about that. I’ve always imagined watercolor has its own consciousness, but I guess paper must too.
Thanks, Maggie.The trick is to get the paper and the watercolor to play nicely with each other.
j
Everything has something of a spirit. Different kinds. That’s my thought. Love these works you are doing recently.
Thanks, Claudia. The idea is to see what happens when one creates on an unconscious level. Perhaps that brings out the essence of the materials.
j