Reference Point

The Line in My Art

When I paint my small, semi-abstract seascapes, there’s always a point where I need to give the viewer a place to start—a point of entry. It’s something I think about a lot. Where does the viewer begin when looking at my work? What draws them in? For me, it’s often a simple line. A line that cuts across the canvas, creating a perspective, a sense of direction, or maybe just a point of reference.

The Horizon Connection

For years, I questioned why I always felt compelled to include a line in my art, whether it was clear and distinct or broken up by other elements in the painting. It was only after a lot of reflection that I realized the answer was right in front of me—or rather, right across from me. Since I was a kid, I’ve seen the ocean almost every day. I grew up near the beach, and for most of my life, I lived with a direct view of the water or just a short walk away.

Even during my time in the Navy, the ocean was always present. My studio for seventeen years had a full-on ocean view, and my home for fifty years offered that same sight. The horizon, where the ocean meets the sky, was a constant in my life. It’s no wonder that line became an integral part of my art. Whether consciously or subconsciously, I’ve been drawing that line across my canvases for as long as I can remember.

Why Perspective Matters

Perspective in art is more than just a technique; it’s a way to connect with the viewer. Even when I paint abstractly, there’s almost always a line—a guide for the eye to follow. It provides a sense of order in what might otherwise seem chaotic or disjointed. The line might be subtle, hidden behind layers of color or texture, but it’s there, providing a foundation for the viewer to engage with the painting.

Painting the Ocean’s Influence

The ocean has had a huge influence on my work. Its vastness, its power, and most importantly, its horizon line are all elements that I bring into my art. Even in my abstract pieces, there’s usually a line that hints at the horizon, a nod to the ocean views that have shaped my perspective, both literally and artistically.

The Freedom in Abstraction

While my art may start with a line or a perspective, it doesn’t end there. Abstraction allows me to explore beyond what’s visible. It’s a way to take something familiar and stretch it, twist it, or break it down into something new. That line on the canvas isn’t just a horizon; it’s a starting point for endless possibilities. It’s a way to move beyond the tangible and into the infinite.