Down to the Lake
oil on canvas
44"x 40"
 "Morning Light " 44"x 40", oil on canvas
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 "Dusk Light" 44"x 40", oil on canvas
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 "Willow Path I" 48"x 48", oil on canvas
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 "Willow Path II" 48"x 48", oil on canvas
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The Lake Series Monaghan’s paintings have always shown a special kind of sensitivity, even reverence, for light on the cusp of change. Says Monaghan, “Landscape at dusk represents a special place and time when I am most compelled to reflect on nature, study its elements, and meditate on the way light and shadow interact. The process of change at this time makes me attentive.” In this new series of works, which includes oil paintings on both canvas and wood panel, Monaghan investigates the effects of this transitional light on water. In these paintings one sees the glint of a low, strong sun bursting through trees and the heavy filter of atmosphere. Light and wind conspire to create bold abstract designs on a lake surface. Monaghan creates an evocative realism in these paintings, made all the more compelling by his skillful handling of paint. Textures and surfaces are built up, and the fluid application of the materials effectively embodies the qualities of water and land present in the image. Upon close inspection, realism takes a back seat to process and the physical effects of paint. All of these qualities unite to evoke memories of time and place.
Biography Thomas Monaghan was born in Chicago and currently lives in the Sonoma Valley. He holds a B.A. in Visual Communications and an M.F.A. in Fine Arts from the University of Northern Illinois
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