Expression of Gravity – JS Murdock
August 8 – September 19
The human figure is one of the most challenging and interesting subjects to study, and this exhibit expresses JS Murdock’s interest in the interplay of light, shadow, and weight on faces and forms. Using dry medium and tinted paper, it is meant to evoke a classic technique with an equally timeless subject.
Artist’s Statement
The human figure is one of the most challenging and interesting subjects to study, and this exhibit expresses my interest in the interplay of light, shadow, and weight on faces and forms. Using dry medium and tinted paper, it is meant to evoke a classic technique with an equally timeless subject.
Initially, I approach the figure model’s weight distribution, making sure to have a solid placement that gives them depth and presence. Using negative space in some areas rather than heavy outline adds a sense of lightness, and contrasts the gravity of form. I also enjoy how this negative space proves to be just as important to express the gesture and the model.
While I often use only black and white chalk, I expanded into pastel and introduced color to some of my figure work. Using tinted paper has also helped with depth: I’ve found that working from a medium tone and adding both highlights and shadows is more descriptive than building up form on a white surface, increasing the expression of weight and gravity.
About the Artist: JS Murdock
JS Murdock is a graduate of the School of the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, and has spent her last twenty years in Salem, living and creating under the tallest tree in her neighborhood by the North River. Most recently, she has become a Gallows Hill Artist and has been inspired by the community and creativity found in that collective.
Fortunate to begin her artistic pursuit at Norwich Free Academy in Connecticut, she was able to dig deep into every medium that caught her interest. This developed into many years of studying portraiture, painting, woodworking, fibercrafts, and works on paper. After the conclusion of her rigorous Drawing a Day project of five years, she has been staying busy with various custom tattoo designs, participating in local figure drawing groups, and a handful of mural commissions for local homes and businesses.
Ongoing passions include restoring her antique house, working locally as a veterinary technician, taking care of her rescue dogs and cats, and the endless pursuit of learning new skills for a life consumed by challenges and creativity.