Eye of the Beholder

Rachel Carter  |  Jennie Lou Art’s Studio  |  Rachelcarterphotography.com

Just like art is an inspiration to so many, the artists behind the artwork are, as well. I captured Jennie, a local Denver, Colorado painter, working in her quiet, sunlight-filled studio on an ordinary day of the week to document her raw and unedited creative process.

Her studio is small, quaint and filled to the brim with her bright and colorful acrylic artwork.

Here are some words from Jennie on the beauty of art and how abstract painting has influenced her as an artist:

“Beauty is truly “in the eye of the beholder”. I may find a painting attractive and alluring, while someone else may not give it a sideways glance. To me, its beauty comes from something words cannot quite describe. Initially, it draws attention because of an emotion. It beckons by way of colors, shape, composition, theme, symbolism etc.

Something in it calls and captures an individual’s attention. Initially, one might exude a response of shock, or surprise – eyes dart to it by way of curiosity. Others are subtle, and allure with tranquility and a peaceful aura.

The beauty of art is how it makes one feel – the emotional satisfaction. When I find myself describing a painting with the word “beautiful”, it has an emotional effect on me; it makes me feel more balanced, steady and at peace.

By nature, I like to figure things out, and I enjoy the “chase”…but why? It makes me think about the excitement of an abstract vs. a recognizable subject. I’m drawn to abstracts because they move and never quite stop moving. Subconsciously my eye is entertained trying to figure it out and make it into something I can name… but it’s an abstract.

Abstract paintings are not intended to be figured out. There is a comfort that comes from accepting the mystery of them and just enjoying them for what they are.”

As a fellow artist, I can relate to Jennie in her creative process; especially with the ups and downs of studying your own work – whether you’re just trying to figure out what it is or tirelessly attempting to improve it. I admire Jennie and her work; being able to paint without preconceived, thought-out plans. What a magical and beautiful process which is so unlike my own; metering for numbers and doing math with light. All planned and laid out in front of you.

At the end of documenting Jennie’s abstract piece, we stepped away as two separate artists; different clients, different mediums and different perspectives. As Jennie said, there can be a lot of mystery to art and sometimes that’s what’s so comforting about it. It’s all in the eye of the beholder.

Jennie Lou Art – jennielouart.com