Windsor Betts

Inspiration for my work is both selective and completely random. I'm certain that influences must come, to a certain degree, from things that enliven and excite me - imperfections, flaws, rust, asymmetry, the texture of concrete, peeling paint from something old, the principles of wabi-sabi - and artists such as Louise Bourgeois, Cy Twombly, Eva Hesse, Hans Josephsohn and Louise Nevelson. Despite all that stimulus, I find that approaching a blank canvas and simply beginning with no preconceived notions of the end result provides greater gratification. I endeavor to find balance within the work, light vs dark, expressionism vs minimalism, and in that process must instinctively recognize when it feels complete.
Using varied elements in my work - acrylics, oils, sand and pure pigments - and applying these to different substrates - canvas, metal, Plexiglas,wood and clay, I eliminate any self-imposed constraints in the creative process. Not confining myself to one medium enables me to experiment, explore and evolve- invariably refining my craft.
Through primarily non-representational imagery, the observer is left with only abstract emotions and instinctual responses towards the painting - feelings and memories are free to manifest based on actual life experiences.
If I am able to engage the observer, make a connection which couldn't be conveyed verbally and ultimately elicit a visceral reaction - my work is done.