I create uplifting and joyful art, so I want to share with you art that makes me smile. We also start to explore what imagery creates a feeling of joy. My art uses nature as a theme, for me, this subject reminds me of the resilience and variety found in the natural world.
The first artist I copied (at 14) as a detailed study was Wassily Kandinsky. I was drawn to his art because of his playful use of shapes and colours. There are certain motifs and patterns that feel more joyful, and circles and dots fall within this category. He also used other geometric shapes in a rhythmic composition.
Jeff Koons is known for his oversized sculpture, taking an object and super-sizing it does feel playful and fun. The subject of his work here is a dog, also a theme that we relate happiness to is our pets.
Henri Matisse’s “Bonheur de Vivre” celebrates life the Fauvist way: through brilliant colour. At the time it was a controversial painting for its expression of sensuality and its wild nature. In 1908, Matisse said this expression of joy represented his dream for “an art of balance, of purity and serenity, devoid of troubling or depressing subject matter”.
Certain motifs, experiences and themes express joy - these can be personal and universal.
Here we’ve explored artists that use and manipulate imagery to express happiness.
What memories bring you joy?
Are there certain colours and patterns that evoke happiness in you?
Is joy important in your art, or are you more interested in expressing other emotions?