Ronald Parent
Works
My paintings are inspired by an exploration of landscapes and waterscapes.
I use digital photography to initially capture subject matter and then manipulate the images on the computer to achieve desired composition and effect. This is done prior to painting on the canvas. I execute these in the medium of pastels and oils. I blend in a non-traditional way, using soft erasers, palette knives, and squeegees to move the medium around on the paper or canvas. This method of application allows for subtle variations and blending of colors. In some cases, pigments and paint are removed from the canvas to reveal a unique effect underneath. In other cases, the medium is manipulated with the tools to achieve a variety of textures. Some of this exploration yields surprising results that are incorporated into the final painting.
I am influenced by the impressionist and expressionist styles that work with the study of sunlight and atmospheres; Whistler, Van Gogh, and Renoir are particular favorites. The Romantic painter, William Turner, is another favorite and his style can sometimes be detected in my work, particularly in my pastels.
