John Hovig
Painting
The Silos at Sawyer Yards
Studio 106
281-755-8127
artist@johnhovig.com
My practice is about systematic visual complexity. I strive for balanced images that keep the eye in motion. Educated as an engineer and software developer, I was programmatic and analytical by trade. As an artist I distance myself from technology's promises of perfection, but take advantage of its creative potential. Single-Line Drawings ' Wiry, cloud-like abstractions. Drawn entirely by hand, with no technology. I begin with a sweeping gesture in a thicker line, then continue with a thinner pen, sometimes a third, adding increasing detail until done. It's not done in one sitting. I work slowly and carefully, keeping the result as abstract as possible. Everyone can see what they want. Clips & Ruler Paintings & Sculptures ' Paper clips, portrayed roughly, symmetrically arranged in colorful groups around a slashing ruler. I limit myself to four colors to give each shade maximum impact. In fact, the single-line drawings descended from these arrangements. A paper clip is a single line, isn't it? Mandalas ' I photograph my drawings, paintings, and sculptures, and turn them into kaleidoscopic complications through computer-based photomanipulation, printing them onto circular aluminum disks, in limited editions. They're all about complexity, symmetry, harmony, and the element of surprise.
