Cloak

Positive and negative space both assert their presence in “Cloak” by Gina Werfel. This careful balance throughout the composition holds the interest of the viewer engaging with this larger abstract painting. This oil on canvas painting offers a complex arrangement of individual elements visible across the picture plane. Paint drips across the surface contrast against washes of bright yet pastel hues of yellow, pink and blue. These washes are punctuated by bright by thick, bold brushstrokes of purple, red and teal. The artist notes that erasure and mark-making are specific aspects of her practice as an artist that impact the manner in which this painting is composed. By eroding away the layers visible in this painting, there are darker underlying marks which are revealed as a result of this process. Werfel’s process and dynamic, assertive brushstrokes hint at the popular 20th century style of abstraction known as action painting, indicating depth and quick movement across the canvas. These sweeping, gestural brushstrokes and Werfel’s decisive style of mark-making make for a compelling composition.