WHAT IS CONCEPTUAL SHIFT  ABSTRACT ART?

Conceptual shift is a form of abstract art that challenges perceptions by intentionally transitioning from one concept or theme to another within a single piece. The artwork begins by establishing an initial expectation or interpretation, only to subvert or transform it by the conclusion. 

This 'shift' prompts the viewer to reevaluate their initial response, often sparking introspection and new insights. A classic example would be a piece that starts with imagery evoking 'expectation' but ultimately resolves into a depiction of 'satisfaction', forcing a reexamination of the emotional journey between those two states.

My Example (in 4 photographs) of Conceptual Shift takes the viewer on a transformative journey, beginning with the concept of isolation and culminating in the vibrant expression of celebration.

The artwork is a 30”x22”, hand-pulled monotype on Fabriano hot-pressed watercolor paper, using acrylic paint on a gel plate. 

It’s created in three distinct layers that symbolize different stages of this conceptual evolution. The final monotype print is not "pulled" until all three layers of paint are applied, allowing each layer to be nearly dry before applying the next. 

The first layer presents a series of black marks scattered across a white background. The space between these marks is deliberate and pronounced, evoking a powerful sense of isolation. The viewer is invited to reflect on the feelings of loneliness and disconnection that this initial image conjures.

The second layer, covering the first, introduces a subtle shift, as the black marks and vacant spaces are married with the introduction of muted, pastel colors. This addition of color represents a tentative reaching out, a yearning for connection that begins to bridge the gaps of isolation. The viewer senses a possibility of change, a potential for transformation that is nascent but promising.

The third and final layer is a riot of vibrant color and dynamic movement.

Once-isolated marks now twist and turn, merging with bold strokes of red, orange, rose, blue, and green.

The image pulsates with energy, capturing the passion, joy, and communal celebration.

Now the viewer is swept up in the exuberance of the scene, the isolation of the beginning layers forgotten in the face of this triumphant conclusion.

ONCE THE IMAGE IS FINALLY PULLED FROM THE PLATE,

WE SEE ALL THE LAYERS COMBINED TO REVEAL THE CONCEPTUAL SHIFT FROM ISOLATION TO CELEBRATION.

                  

 Through the progression of three layers, this conceptual shift powerfully depictsa journey from solitude to celebration, from stillness to dynamic movement. It challenges the viewer to consider their own experiences of isolation and the potential for transformation that exists within us all. 

The shift from somber beginnings to vibrant finale is a testament to the human capacity for growth, expression, and the universal language of connection that unites us across cultures and borders.

READY TO BEGIN YOUR  "Conceptual Shift" ABSTRACT ART?

Let’s stir the creative pot this month by creating a piece of abstract art that represents the transformation of one concept into another. You'll be working with one of your choice of three starting and ending concepts. 

The "Start" and "Finish" concepts are intentionally diverse and potentially challenging to connect. This is where the creativity really kicks in. You'll need to think deeply about the essence of each concept and how they might be bridged.

Choose One

• Start: "Isolation" Finish: "Celebration"
• Start: "Machine" Finish: "Flower"
• Start: "Silence" Finish: "Echo"

1. The concepts all have - a "Start" concept and a "Finish" concept that embrace abstract ideas; emotions, concrete objects, or some things in between.
2. Your task is to create an abstract piece of art that visually represents a journey from the "Start" concept to the "Finish" concept. Think of it as telling a story, but instead of words, you're using color, shape, texture, and composition.
3. The piece can be created using any medium you like - paint, digital art, collage, mixed media, etc.
4. Once you've completed your piece, write a short paragraph (no more than 150 words) explaining the journey you depicted. How did you visually represent the transformation from "Start" to "Finish"? What elements of your artwork symbolize different stages of the journey?

 Once you've completed your piece and the accompanying written explanation, I'd love to see your artwork and read about your process!

Let me know if you have any questions or need further clarification. I'm excited to see where this challenge takes your art!