C. J Phu
Tall Grass Blue Sky 1, 2006, mixed media on canvas
Using acrylic paint, graphite, charcoal, and oil stick, C.J. Phu creates lush semi-abstract, expressionistic botanicals, which express his inspiring, lifelong love of nature. C.J. applies a layer of text - both organic and calligraphic - among multiple layers of paint. Text and medium combine to create depth, complexity, and a quiet dynamism, with wispy fronds set in subtle motion by a soft breeze. The muted layer of text adds pattern, depth, texture, and a subliminal narrative, which suggests that the painting itself is a thought-process, ongoing, developing, and growing like the uncultivated, wild, and vibrant corner of a field.