Kathleen Craig

There are two kinds of abstract painting: paintings that continue in the tradition of portraying or referring to something, however beyond words it may be, usually with a figure-ground relationship, hence, the term figurative painting? The other kind, perhaps best characterized by the term nonobjective, are paintings that seek to be objects in themselves, as much separate objects as a rock or a tree or a house. I approve of limitations, as so-called creativity is really just problem solving. But when I try to make a nonobjective painting I feel too limited by the shape – you are obliged to make a flat rectangular thing. No wonder Michelangelo preferred sculpture! For me, the possibilities of figurative painting, however abstract, stretch out in all directions. Confusing to be sure, but exciting.
Also, I am discursive enough to feel that each painting is a whole new experience. Sometimes there seem to be close relationship between paintings, sometimes not so much. These days I work on land/seascapes, still lifes, figures, and combinations. The combinations are getting to be really fun. I love setting off with an idea and not knowing where it will go – like Harold and the purple crayon, “taking a line on a walk” (Klee). I love finding out that there is a problem with a painting I thought I had finished, often months later, and I love diving in and trying to fix it.
I am lucky to have time to devote to this.  

Flower Arranging, oil on canvas, 20" x 16"  Available 


Truck with Pink Tires, oil on linen, 12" x 12"  Available 


Can't Resist Fruit, oil on canvas, 30" x 30"  Available 


Dog with White Ears, oil on canvas, 13" x 17"  SOLD 


Pink Straws, oil on canvas, 18" x 20"  Available 


Turtle Still Life, oil on canvas, 18" x 20"  Available 


Yellow House, oil on linen, 24" x 18"  Available 


 Fruit on Orange Box, oil on canvas, 24" x 24"  SOLD