Nocturne in Blues and Browns

18 in x 36in

8/2026

The pattern for “Nocturne in Blues and Browns” was made by laying down horizontal and vertical lines to yield progressively-sized squares and rectangles in definite relationship to one another.  Rectangles of varied width and height build an irregular mosaic, creating a “rooms within rooms” effect.  The viewer’s eye might start by looking at the painting as a whole, but then might focus in on a deeper scale, pausing at small points of emphasis, and then return to the larger field.  

The chromatic dialogue between blues and browns lends drama to the piece. Blue fields establish spaciousness and emotional depth while the brown segments ground the composition, bringing warmth, gravity, and a sense of material density—like worn architectural surfaces. Texture was applied to many segments of the painting to lend interest and prevent the repeated grid from flattening. Metallic outlines and accented circular dots act to unify the piece by continuing its geometric symmetry and by lending the composition a faintly precious quality. The dots punctuate the rectilinear rhythm like notes in a score, stars against the night, or fasteners holding together a constructed surface. In fact, the repetition of the dots reminded me of music, which played a role in titling the piece.

“Nocturne in Blues and Browns” is a painting of disciplined complexity. Its structure is built from simple elements yet every region has a slightly different temperature, surface, and rhythmic role. It walks a balance of containment and mystery to be something ordered enough to enter, but layered enough to get lost in.