The sound of the waves: artist inspired by textures, patterns of water
Anna Nguyen
Issue date: 2/4/09 Section: Lifestyles
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Although the representation of a body of water is obvious at a distance, the image is suddenly questioned when the viewer stands closer to one of Brumbaugh's pieces, as the textures and patterns are decidedly abstract.
"Ideally, I want [my works] to be both abstract and concrete," Brumbaugh said. "You see a recognizable image at a distance, like a water surface or a leaf, but when you come up close to it, it becomes abstract. I'm playing with the colors and textures [in my pieces] to see what is happening on an abstract level."
Although the artist lives by the Chesapeake Bay, Brumbaugh said his inspiration for the collection comes not from his love of water, but from a fascination with the way it looks and the joy he finds in drawing it.
"The water is a vehicle for my drawing," he said. "I enjoy the waves, patterns and ripples, and I'm attracted to its patterns and textures."
This attention to the details of water is visualized in the collection, as Brumbaugh's pieces reveal innovative designs of lush swirls and waves. Despite his painstaking concentration on the patterns, his works also convey a simplistic essence, which is evident in the placid subject matter.
As a child, Brumbaugh enjoyed drawing and painting, and his interest in the two pastimes continued as he aged. Throughout his college studies he continued to pursue art, constantly doodling and sketching.
The artist categorizes himself as a two-dimensional artist because "it's easy to pick up a pencil or an oil pastel and begin to draw," Brumbaugh said. "I like the simplicity of working in a two-dimensional manner."
In addition to oil pastels, his other mediums include oil paints and brush solvent.
"Water Works" by Jack Brumbaugh will be displayed at the Anne Kittrell Art Gallery until Friday, Feb. 13. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday.
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