Neap and Spring

My abstract works mostly explore nature and the environment. As a resident of the Sunshine Coast, my surroundings provide much inspiration and therefore the themes and properties of water, ocean, sun and light are regularly visited in my work.
Whilst the picture’s titles suggest my direct inspiration for each image, I prefer to leave the interpretation to the viewer, so that the work may become a ‘conversation’ where your own experiences and ideas can help form the reading of the composition.

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Hello. My name is Christopher Bartkus.
I have held a strong interested in Art since I was a child, and have always had a desire to create and make, in varying ways over the years.
I eventually found a career in Fine Furniture, and my current art practice derives from my knowledge and technical skills from this industry.
My interest in sustainable practice lead me to create work which would utilise the often wasted ‘off-cuts’ which are generated (and usually discarded) during the furniture making process.
Deeply inspired by Abstract Expressionism, my pieces are largely abstract, but also respond to the nature and surrounds of my home on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast.
My works are all created from triangular pieces of timber, which are either left in their natural state, painted or stained - with natural stains such as iron acetate (black stain) which is a compound made from steel wool and water, and indigo dye (blue) which is made from natural indigo extract.
Being crafted from timber, there are natural variations in each ‘tile’ which add character and interest, and ensure that each of my works is totally unique.
Some of the timber is salvaged, so some of the tiles may show signs of their previous life.