Gary Croner

Op Art

I am basically self-taught. My work falls into two main genres: hard edged abstracts and geometric art. The best label to describe what I do is Op Art. The first and foremost influence on my art was Victor Vasarely, one of the fathers of Op Art. His use of gradation of color and creating three dimensions on a two dimensional surface grabbed me and didn't let go. Brigit Riley, Paul Klee, Frank Stella and Ellsworth Kelly also inspire my geometric work. Stuart Davis is the most obvious influence on my hard edged abstracts. Hundertwasser is another.

I try to strike a balance between complexity and grace and flow. I want the viewer to have fun and to be stimulated. Some of the underlying patterns in my paintings occur in nature which leads me to think this is one reason they resonate with the viewer.

The first thing I do after preparing a canvas is to lay down guidelines. All of the painting is done by brush in hand. No tape or other form of masking is used. It takes a long time to make my paintings. I enjoy the challenge of filling in each shape as precisely as possible. Painting straight lines/distinct edges on canvas is a little like juggling on a ship. Canvas is not flat and so presents a real test to the painter. After working as a computer programmer and systems analyst, I have a reluctance to do more with computers so while it is possible to do what I do on a computer, up until recent developments in digital printing, the results didn't have the look and feel of paint on canvas.

It will come as a surprise to hear that despite how composed my work is, there is always a lot of discovery in what I do. I usually don't know how things will turn out and am often surprised mysel. I hope you enjoy my work!