The Essence of Abstraction in My Artistic Practice Curiosity has led me to become an abstract painter. I am constantly drawn to the question: Is it possible to discern “real/not real”? For me, this is the essence of abstraction and the very question that keeps me engaged, both in the studio and in life. Without any “real” distraction, I am free to contemplate, discover, and escape. Like my viewers, I hope to find a way through the picture. Yet, over time, I have found that the true beauty of abstraction is not in finding your way, but in discovering the joy of getting lost. My compositions collide and hang in balance, leading to unexpected outcomes. Dissonance is intentional and is explored through infinite variations. Much of my work is based on the perceptual landscape, transcribing both geometric and organic shapes in nature. Using my own filters of memory, sensory experiences and artistic interpretation, I can build layer after layer with quick-drying acrylics.