Merrilee Main

Artist Statement

Merrilee Main

These non-objective paintings are created independent of visual references in the external world. I employ the gestural approach of Abstract Expressionism, in which paint functions as a language of color, form, and space. Layers of color and brushwork accumulate to reveal the “accidents” of free gesture, which are then selectively manipulated and enhanced.

By merging these two seemingly opposing approaches, the viewer senses evidence of the “hand of the artist,” capable of being both free and intuitive in expressive gesture, as well as focused and intentional in artistic purpose. I strive to evoke feelings of “place,” drama, movement, and perhaps a touch of whimsy through my incorporation of light, space, and calligraphic brushwork.