While cruising the interwebs, I happened upon this amusing blogger who uses serious art terminology to critique children’s artwork. It’s been quite a few moons since my last studio art class and I thought that perhaps I too should brush up on my critiquing skills.

Where better to start than with Bug’s very first painting! He actually did 6 separate works in this one sitting, but has chosen this piece (entitled “Digger”) as his favorite.

There is no shortage of energy when it comes to Mr. Bug’s compositions. Contrasting bold masses of color with decidedly stark negative spaces, his exuberant strokes move the viewer’s eye rapidly across the canvas. Taking cues from his chosen title, we see the heavy construction equipment huddled together, their booms scraping the sky. Clearly Mr. Bug has been studying the masters; his employment of a passionate color scheme is a nod to the hues of Matisse, yet his restrain of a tertiary palette is reminiscent of Rothko. Some lines are decisive and crisp, while others are soft and textural. Non-figurative in nature, Mr. Bug’s strong works hold the viewer captive with their honest, yet inviting simplicity.

With 6 pieces completed and more currently in production, look for a Mr. Bug gallery show soon!