Featured Artist

Helen Canetta – Belmont, MA
@sayhellotohelen

My creativity often leads me to the edge of the figurative and non-figurative abstract worlds, luring me back and forth across this delicate divide on my artistic journey.

Abstract is the art form which speaks to me the loudest; while it requires an undeniable form of self-discipline to control flow, rhythm and energy, it abides to no rules and it stands alone as an art form which allows anything to come to life. Abstract art leads the viewers and painters alike on a thrilling path of discovery where the rational mind no longer dictates how things are or should be and where everything is palpable and resonates if only we allow ourselves the freedom to stop thinking.

In today’s world, the mind desperately craves a reprieve or harbor, a safe and fun playground of its very own without rules to abide by. Abstract art represents the utmost level of freedom to me.

Texture has become a key element to my work even with purely non-figurative pieces and is a key element in setting the tone of each piece. Working each canvas with countless layers and sharp edges is essential to give the work its proper grit and texture.

While I have an unconditional appetite and appreciation for all painting styles and artistic periods from the prehistoric cave murals onwards, my era of choice englobes expressionism and post-expressionism. My favorite Master Painters include Egon Schiele, Pablo Picasso, Jackson Pollock, Willem De Kooning, Kees van Dongen, Marc Chagall as well as contemporary maestros like German sculptor and painter Anselm Kiefer for their bold and audacious vision, the vigor and melancholy injected in their timeless work.