Abstract expressionist Douglas Deveny’s elegant mixed media paintings convey a dreamlike, almost ethereal visual. To enjoy more of his work, please visit his website.
“Silent Landscape – Morning Dove” Mixed Media on Wood, 18” x 18”
My abilities and interest in the arts were evident at a very young age, but ultimately, my insecurities and preconceptions led me down different paths. Unsettled by my distance to the arts as an adult, I’ve returned to make peace with my talents and fully realize my vision. I have something to say and it’s graceful, simple and refined. Personally, nothing is as fulfilling as a completed, successful painting and the sense of satisfaction that comes with it.
“Monumental I & II” Diptych, Mixed Media on Wood, 36” x 36” each
Visual texture has incredible expressive qualities and has always been a primary interest of mine. Currently, I’m exploring the complexity and emotional qualities of simplicity, through the use of color and texture. Whether it is my newer minimal landscapes or my simple geometric series “Monumental,” I strive to achieve a sense of peace and sanctuary with texture and color as my instruments.
“Poppy Seed I & II” Diptych, Mixed Media on Wood, 30” x 30” each
I like to use geometric forms and simple squares because they tend to have little emotional baggage or attachments associated with them. I also like to work on a square picture plane for the same reasons. I think their lack of context, if presented well, can be safely and comfortably intriguing.
“Coastal Footpath” Mixed Media on Wood, 16” x 16”
Even though my art has an abundance of visual texture, the final pieces are surprisingly smooth. All of the surface manipulation and elbow grease ends up creating a worn down, flat surface that reveals a lot of visual depth (which unfortunately isn’t apparent in many of their photographs). Once coated with their final layers of satin varnish, they take on an almost waxy, encaustic quality.
“Glacial Navigation” Mixed Media on Wood, 16” x 16”
In my ongoing series “Organization,” my work focuses on simple design to allow the texture and color to take center stage. I like to incorporate a hard edge technique in these to allow for exact and clean compositions. This is where my control issues happily come into play.
“Piano Key I & II” Diptych, Mixed Media on Wood, 20” x 20” each
On the other hand, my creative process can be an energizing but also difficult struggle between letting go and keeping control. Ultimately, it is the mistakes and mishaps that happen during the process that create the ultimate direction and depth.
“Fine China” Mixed Media on Wood, 36” x 36”
You may have noticed that I enjoy working with pairs or diptychs. Although I make my paintings available for sale individually, I love creating multiple images that can ultimately interplay with each other but can still stand can stand alone as an individual. It’s kind of like letting their harmony fill a space together.
“The Great Outdoors I & II” Diptych, Mixed Media on Wood, 30” x 30” each
If I had to pick a favorite inspiration it would be the spiritual simplicity and beauty of Agnes Martin’s art. I’m always inspired to emulate, but not replicate, her unmistakably gentle and peaceful aesthetic. She gave sanctuary in her paintings and I want to walk a similar path.
Artist Douglas Deveny working in his studio.
It’s been very exciting this year getting accepted into juried shows and even winning an award. I’m most humbled and gratified knowing that people have chosen my art to adorn something as personal and precious as their homes for many years to come.
Artist Douglas Deveny invites you to follow him on Instagram.
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