About This Piece

Throughout my practice as an artist I continue to, explore a variety of processes and materials. I seek to expand upon a visual vocabulary based on geometric abstraction. My exploration is driven by my environment and place in time, as well as, personal boundaries to seek new conclusions. The culmination of these elements is thus an important aspect of the end result.

My goal is to provide a level of visual fantasy as an intuitive juxtaposition to the analytical aspects that govern the science of engineering. Time with the work allows viewers to draw upon on their own conclusions and meanings.

The work consists of a flat wall mural and projected overlays of images with a choreographed sequence of color changes. These physical and illusionistic elements combine both technology and classical elements of traditional abstract painting. The sum of geometry, color and electronic light intuitively merge to create a dichotomy of questions concerning reality.

My work makes an obvious connection of science and fine art. In “A-Gadda-Da-Vida” the blurred boundaries of the two interconnect thus providing the visual and mental basis for the other. The eye and the mind become one sense as the artwork is contemplated by the viewer. The layers of technology and artistic technique, each fusing into one another, provides the heart and soul of the work.

I have worked with geometrical abstraction and optical illusions for several years. By working with both a physical painted wall and the ethereal qualities of projected light an element of illusion comes forth. The idea of the work comes from making a process of drawings in order to make the light image for the projection. The rest of the image is painted. Choices regarding color and details are part of an artist’s decision-making process. The result achieved through additional layering of changing colors, although thought out and tested, are all part of the fun of discovering by chance what will happen in the end.

I see this works as a beacon at the end of the long corridor. Much like a billboard you approach from a distance and then up close, it has to work at both vantage points. My hope is “A-Gadda-Da-Vida” will immerse the viewer when they are standing or sitting directly in front of it, as well as, entice them from a distance.

As with most large-scale works they come with many boundaries and issues. In my case those were scale and light. I wanted the image to hold your interest from far down the hall, as well as, near the piece. I see this long hall as a cylinder or long skinny box that is made for travel. “A-Gadda-Da-Vida” is the prize at the end of the tunnel.

I don’t want to tell the viewer how to interpret or look at the work. I want the viewer to use the work as a place of contemplation or meditation. I hope it will help deliver the viewer to a new place where their thoughts have never been. A place that is unique to them and based on their own life experiences.

“The opportunity to be an artist or engineer is a gift. A gift or a license to explore and grow new territories to be enjoyed by yourself and others. As an artist or engineer, we must be excited to be a part of making the “magic.”— Jay Shinn