Momentum Artist: Christen Humphries, Comanche

Christen Humphries

Wisps of Winter

Graphite, Gouache

Q: What was the concept behind your Momentum artwork?

A: Winter embodies our need for reflection; a time to hibernate with one’s thoughts and assess the purpose of our creation.  This time of year is such an apt time to contemplate our life and anticipate the blessings of a forthcoming season.  Rest, peace, still, calm each of these describes the landscape of nature’s dormant months and is reflective of our own need for an interval of quietude.  The bible speaks of flowers and grass fading and withering, but the word of God standing forever (Isaiah 40:7-8), which as a Christian is a reminder of His eternal being.  As the bleakness winter pervades it is this truth that quickens my soul.  These ideas then became my impetus to paint the portrait of winter. 

Q: Explain the technique and/or process you used to create your Momentum work.

A: Wisps of Winter was created with pencil, paper, watercolor and gouache.  I began by laying down numerous layers of graphite, gradually building up the landscape.  I then gathered various dried grasses to paint on the surface of the landscape.  The grasses were arranged on the paper until the decided composition was achieved after which I began to draw them in.  I used a kneaded eraser for the drawing and then painted on the white of the paper so as not to muddy the paint. 

Materials: Arches hot pressed watercolor paper, Faber-Castell & General’s Kimberly graphite pencils 2H-8B, Winsor & Newton watercolor & gouache.

View, Purchase and Experience Artwork by Oklahoma's Emerging Young Artists at Momentum OKC. Event: March 5-6.  Gallery Hours: March 9, 10 & 11. Tickets and more information: www.MomentumOklahoma.org.