Artist: Jenny Watts
Website: http://www.friendsinmay.com
Commentary:
Jenny Watts is an artist that I have chosen to profile, namely because I admire her work – specifically her use of color. Her work is reminiscent of early Marc Chagall, at least so much in the choice of color palette. Her works are smaller in scale and synergize well when displayed in series. Color schemes and style thus transfer well when comparing images side by side. The color palette chosen primarily involves blue/green juxtaposed against hollow white/black figures or yellow/red juxtaposed against hollow white/black figures. The backgrounds of most works have distorted rhythmic appearances which convey a weathered and antique appearance.
Animal forms and figures are the primary focal point of Jenny’s work. The figures appear whimsical yet resolute, as if they are aware that one is watching their movements. They are drawn in a stencil/pop fashion in that most are white/off white with roundness achieved through the use of black lines outlining the counters. The relative lack of color separates the figures from the background, thus giving the images a sense of depth.
Personally, I would like to see larger scale paintings produced, with the characters interacting together. This concept would produce a painting with potentially less visual impact at first due to the inclusion of more white from the figures; however it would be fun for the viewer to untangle the actions of the characters on display. A painting of this style would require the viewer to actively engage in the painting. Being said, the works as they stand now hold value and are unique and noteworthy on their own merit. Jenny is a young artist with a bright future.
Tweet