Visual Language Magazine Contemporary Magazine Vol 3 no 8

VL
Russ Mackensen
http://rmackensenfineart.com/
Having worked as an Architect for over 40 years I produced a lot of drawings and renderings of projects,
but was not involved in fine art. Yet I have been “seeing” projects in lights and darks, texture, composition,
movement and color. All these elements of architecture are the same ones that artists apply to their works.
In 2009 I decided to try Oil Pastels. A drawing medium that allows my mind to naturally transfer what I “see”
onto the ground I’m working on. I soon discovered this was a medium not too well known or understood.
An application of pure pigment in stick form, similar to Dry Pastels. They are relatively new in the art world
being developed as a fine art medium for Picaso in the 50’s.
My approach to creating realism in my work is seldom attempted due to its difficulty. With a limited palette
of colors to work from the direct application of one color is not viable. Working on 400 grit sandpaper everything
is mixed right on the final location, so any mistakes are not easily repaired.
In my life and my art I strive to give praise to the Creator of all who forgives my mistakes and allows me to
share the beauty I see with those who view my art.
A Blue Plate Special
26 | VL Magazine - VisualLanguageMagazine.com