Jean Lurssen

Artist Statement

I’m a mixed media artist exploring the beauty, harmony and balance of nature. Through subtracting and adding visual elements I attempt to create a sense of balance by creating a visual space for quiet contemplation and discovery. It’s about re-imaging shapes to communicate ideas and feelings.

The subject matter of my artwork emerges organically from my imagination. Rather than drawing from recognizable scenes or objects, I am inspired by the spontaneous imagery that forms within my mind. This approach enables me to explore and push the boundaries of abstract expression.

I find myself irresistibly drawn to the shapes and forms present in nature. The organic lines and contours found in the natural world serve as a wellspring of inspiration. It’s these natural shapes that often become the underpinnings of my compositions, guiding the movement and flow of my pieces. The interplay of negative space and positive shapes becomes a dialogue, inviting the viewer to contemplate the relationship between the two.

Biography

I studied painting at the Rhodesian School of Art in what is now Zimbabwe. This foundation was further enriched by four years under the tutelage of master watercolorist Jerry Stitt, AWS, an experience that helped immerse me in the techniques and principles of design and composition.

My creative process is intuitive and organic, and often starts without a specific plan, letting a carefully selected limited palette guide my artistic direction.

I was honored to have one of my abstract paintings used as the inside cover of a book published in Italy of Alfred Lord Tennyson’s poetry. One of my paintings was also used on the cover of an award-winning poetry book published in the US.

I live in Marin County, California, which has many unspoiled coastal areas, nature parks and trails that inspire many of my paintings. I also teach watercolor and mixed media classes online.

Art Medium(s)

Acrylic Paint, Watercolor, Mixed Media