The Zero Point Of Art-a Discovery Of Personal Expression

In2010, I was intrigued by Johannes Itten’s statement that every artist has within himself a personal style and expression. As a young artist, I was curious about my own style, and wondered if I have found mine yet.The thesis aims to show the sources and factors that enabled me to discover my personal style and expression.From2010to2011, an examination and analysis was carried out on several fronts:the art books I read, artworks that attract me, and my notebooks that contain my reflections about life. I experimented with new painting techniques. My training as an actor was also tapped and adapted to help me reach my inner self.The readings gave me an understanding that art should not be an imitation of nature, should express an aesthetic experience and enrich the imaginative life of the viewer. The analysis of artworks highlighted certain useful techniques that artists use. The painting exercises freed and deepened my expressive ability.The thesis concludes with a survey of my portrait paintings from2010to2011, showing how they have developed and evolved. With a better understanding of the purpose of art, and armed with better technique, my art has indeed become more meaningful, expressive and more truly depicts what is in me.