Noah B. Gray Artist Statement - Prior to taking this art class, my artistic capabilities were undiscovered. I had little experience with drawing, painting, or any art-based activity. When I first started Intro To 2-D Art, I was quite nervous because I knew people would be more experienced with the subject than I. However, I was instantly relieved to know that many people were in the same situation as I was. Throughout my instruction, my art skills have improved astronomically. I have learned the concept of two-point perspective(Hale O Mauna), the creation of a collage using pastels, watercolors, and paper(Bikini Beatles), and the processes in drawing a self-portrait(Luscious Lips). So far, I have enjoyed using the vibrant colors of chalk pastels and black colored pencils to add depth into my artwork. In my artwork, I enjoy making drawings with comedic undertones while also adding "out of the box" details. Generally, I start with an idea/concept that I like and then I conform it to the specifics of the project. In my artwork, i like to focus on eye catching details which help my art stand out.Throughout the course 2-D Art I have learned that I do have an artistic nature and that is expressed in my artwork as depictions of my creativity and committment to make good artwork. Overall, I have learned that even though my art might not be the best, I always work very hard to make it unique and interesting/joyful to look at.
Bikini Beatles
This piece, Bikini Beatles, is a radial symmetry drawing of a beatle in which four different artistic materials are used. In the top left, I used chalk pastels to form an arbitrary colors scheme and I did this by using vibrant colors that made the beatle stand out. In the top right, I used watercolors to form an analagous color scheme and by using green, green blue, and green yellow, I created a beatle with a leaf-like appearance. In the bottom left, I used multiple shades of blue magazine paper to create a collage that depicts my beatle with a sky-like appearance. In the bottom right, I used oil pastels to create a complementary color scheme that highlighted the beatle while also making it stand out. This project really inspired me to work hard in my artwork and even though it is not perfect, it is my favorite piece.
Hale O Moana
This piece, Hale O Moana (House of Mountains), is a two-point perspective drawing that depicts many things. The centerpiece of this artwork is the house that is equipped with windows and doors. Additionally, a drive way and road gives uses level on the page to show distance. Background details such as trees and mountains give the artwork a sense of natural appearance. I wanted to demonstrate my ability to draw letters in two-point perspective so I drew my dad's initials, as he means a lot to me. This project, being my first, shows my inexperience but I believe that it was a good start. I had difficulties deciding where to start and where to add details but once I got going, it became easier.
Luscious Lips
This piece, Luscious Lips, is a self portrait used to demonstrate my knowledge of symmetry and values. I thought this was the most difficult project due to how hard it is to get exact details of the face. I started by outlining the shoulders and face and then adding details in the face and on my jacket. I then decided that I was going to exaggerate the size of my lips. After this, I decided to detail the shelves in the background as well as add value whereer I could. However, even though I thought this was the hardest project, I felt incredibly rewarded with how well it came out.