"Niagara Falls Vacation" By Eric Buechel

"Niagara Falls Vacation" By Eric Buechel, Mixed Media 22" x 22"

Non-Static Impressionism

I used an old family photograph to create this painting of my mother at Niagara Falls, taken when I was about ten years old. Although I wasn't present at the time the photograph was captured, this particular image of my mom has left a lasting impression on me over the years, evoking a sense of nostalgia and warmth that transcends the mere act of viewing a picture. Family pictures have a unique ability to transform into vivid experiences, even if you weren't there to witness the moments they depict. This is certainly the case here; the memories associated with this image have softened over time, becoming blurred yet more poignant as I reflect on them.

The process of creating these blurry images began after I read an article about Gerhard Richter, a renowned German visual artist who is also my favorite contemporary artist. The article delved into a fascinating concept he explored known as non-static impressionism. This concept captivated my imagination, prompting me to experiment with this innovative art form. The dreamlike quality of non-static impressionism appealed to me, as it captures fleeting moments in time, allowing viewers to engage with the artwork on a more emotional level.

My first attempt using this technique was a reinterpretation of Da Vinci's iconic painting, the Mona Lisa, which I creatively titled "Neo Lisa." This endeavor was far from straightforward; it took me three dedicated tries to achieve the effect I envisioned. As children, we are often taught to color within the lines, much like filling in a coloring book. However, when it comes to blurring an image, the traditional lines that guide us in our early artistic education are absent. Instead, the guidance comes from within our minds, drawing on our memories and emotions. While we might have a few guiding lines to start with, the majority of the process relies on our intuition and instinct for placing pigment on the canvas or paper.

This form of painting presents quite a challenge, which is precisely what intrigued me. By removing intricate details from the equation, I was able to elevate the importance of composition, color, and tone in my work. One of the significant goals I pursued was to unlearn the rigid focus on details that we are often taught as children. Instead, I aimed to create art that was visually pleasing and emotionally resonant. I also contemplated what elements could enhance the painting's overall interest and depth.

Once the painting was completed, I realized I needed something to highlight its surface and make it stand out. Utilizing light to my advantage proved to be ideal for presenting a dreamlike image. I developed a technique that I refer to as an encapsulating blur, which causes light refraction, especially when the light strikes the painting at a specific angle. This effect adds a layer of complexity and intrigue to the artwork, inviting viewers to engage with it more deeply.

The secret to achieving this hyper-glazing effect lay in a careful combination of cold wax medium, Galkyd painting medium, and a touch of pigment. This mixture had to be layered over a water-based medium with a clear acrylic medium first, allowing me to safely introduce an oil-based product into the mix. The learning curve for mastering this technique was steep and took me a full year of experimentation and practice. However, the effort was undoubtedly worthwhile, as I achieved the ethereal quality I set out to create, and the final piece turned out beautifully, resonating with the emotional depth I hoped to convey.

Ode to a Mother

By Eric Buechel

In the quiet dawn, her whispers rise,

A gentle touch beneath the skies.

With every heartbeat, every sigh,

She weaves her love, a lullaby.

Through storms of life, she stands so tall,

A steadfast rock, she catches all.

Her laughter dances in the air,

A soothing balm, a tender care.

With hands worn soft from toil and strife,

She shapes the dreams that fill our life.

Each sacrifice, a silent song,

In her embrace, we all belong.

Her eyes reflect the stars above,

With wisdom deep, and endless love.

A guiding light in darkest night,

She shows the path, she makes it bright.

So here’s to you, dear mother mine,

Your heart, a treasure, pure, divine.

In every moment, near or far,

You are my home, my shining star.

Eric Buechel Fine Art

P. O. Box 277

Pleasant Hill, Tennessee 38578

931-881-7806

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