Tag: Ocean

Transitions

by Brian Sostrom
Transitions 18”x24” acrylic on wood panel

Transitions is a great title, it was the name of this painting also the name of my solo show last winter. The show was last March on Bainbridge Island at the Bainbridge Island Center for the Arts. 

Visual transitions are critical to my work and their importance can’t be over stated. To me the use of paint, the way it is applied, is a driving force. Mark making and the flow of motion through a painting can make the most mundane intriguing. In life transitions can be terrible but I don’t live in the real world too often.

This painting was purchased by one of my very best friends. The best work rarely  gets back home.

Day Transitions 20”x16”

by Brian Sostrom

I don’t know if it matters when deadlines are. For me I seem compelled to work right to the edge no matter if necessary or not. Next weekend is the opening of my show in Astoria, Oregon. The show is called “Transitions” at the McVarish Gallery. So I suppose it is appropriate that one of the final paintings for the show shares part of the show title.

Roaring 20”x16”

by Brian Sostrom

When I was a child there were two destinations, the Oregon coast and Wyoming. My Mom’s parents lived in Oregon, my Dad’s parents… you got it Wyoming!

I feel a real love and connection to both places. I am excited to have a show in Astoria, Oregon in June. So close to the coast you can see it from the Astoria Column. When you fill the gas tank at Safeway you hear sea lions barking and complaining about the fishermen. In July I will be going to the Wind River Mountains of Wyoming, the greatest place! Family will be at both destinations and I am excited about these adventures.

I now reside in Idaho, I seem to have split the difference between Oregon and Wyoming. I was thinking about these amazing places, the past and the unknowable future. What does today’s rambling blog have to do with this painting? Aside from the obvious coastal connection, everything.