Why Design Matters and art update!

Once again, I know I have not been posting as often as I want to, but soon that will change as I will finally have more time on my hands in the next few months. I am still painting in conjunction with pursuing my interest in web design. One of the fundamental reasons for this pursuit is to incorporate my artistic skill in a unique way and explore new ways of integrating art and technology. I’ve always been fascinated by human interaction and perceptions of beauty. One of the best things about being an artist is watching how people react to my art.

Key to this pursuit is answering the question, what is a good design? Principles, such as The Golden Ratio implemented by the Ancient Greeks, are rooted in the human psyche. We, for instance, are built to seek patterns and expect certain types of interactions. For example, when we enter a mall, we expect the mall to have a certain layout and color, we might expect to have escalators at the center of the facility for easy access, and we expect the bathroom to be near the food court. This example also applies to colors. Certain colors make us feel certain ways for certain reasons. Why is this important? Simply put, good design is there to aid and improve human interaction. Good design creates an experience that is useful and impactful. It is no wonder that marketers place a great deal of emphasis in understanding human psychology. As an artist, I have learn quite a bit from these principles.

Would like to hear your thoughts about design! What do you think of when you think of a good design?

I am also happy to announce that my art will be permanently housed in the future Blacks in Classics Museum in VA. My Scarborough painting is already at the location. This ongoing project will feature select key Black figures that have influenced Classical thought in the United States. The Grand Opening will be on Juneteenth this year.

Portrait of William Scarborough, Oil 16″ x 12″ Panel, by artist V.W., 2021

The second painting I am working on is of Anna Julia Cooper:

Portrait of Anna Julia Cooper, Oil on 16″ x 12″ Panel

Other key figures that will be painted are Frederick Douglass and W. E. B. Du Bois.

I am also excited to be one of the featured artist for the Beaches Fine Art Series’ 50th Anniversary Celebration in Jacksonville, FL. My art will be featured alongside The GRAMMY® Award-winning vocal ensemble Chanticleer in March 2023. I will provide more details on that event as well as two other solo shows this year.

View my upcoming art shows here. I will be updating this information this coming week!

Advertisement

Evening Road on 8″ x 10″ Panel https://vanessawithun.com/store/

This is a piece I began a while back and decided to touch it up today! I wanted to add more value changes. I will definitely be doing another one like this soon in a larger size. I love evening drives, especially as the sun is setting. 🙂

This piece will be added to my online store: https://vanessawithun.com/store/

Free Shipping in the U.S. 🙂

Classical Portrait Study with Oil

Classical Portrait Study with Oil on 12″ x 16″ Linen Panel by Artist V.W.

I previously shared a portrait study I was working on. Here are some more details to that. I was surprised to learn how much red is in this painting. I am always done with this one, and although it is not exact, I am okay with it because I have learned so much. I plan to do more of these in the future.

Here are some of the steps: Drawing and “Dead Coloring Stage”

www.vanessawithun.com

As it Turns: Oil on 18″ x 24″ Linen

I started this painting a few years ago and decided to re-work some of the sky. I was inspired by William Turner’s dramatic skies. I wanted to apply the same concept with wetlands. I love the idea of creating something new and from the imagination.

www.vanessawithun.com

Fruits and Teapot: Acrylic on 16″ x 16″ Canvas

I have not painted with a acrylic for some time. I really like how expressive I can be because of the quick drying time. I also love the vivid colors. It is certainly different from oil which leaves a more delicate finish. I was wanting to do something bold and fun.

http://www.vanessawithun.com

Distant Light: Oil on 18″ x 24″ Canvas Insta-@vanessa_withun_art

Thanks to those who have been following my work! It really pushes me to continue in what I do.

If you are familiar with my work, you know that I have a fascination with wetlands and a respect for these precious and overlooked areas. I wanted to capture a serene ambiance. With all the events of this past year, I want to represent peace and hope in my art.

I have also started a new Instagram page @vanessa_withun_art

Please follow if you are on Instagram! I will be sure to follow back. 🙂