Urban Radiance: The Intersection of Geometric Abstraction and Futuristic Imagination
Hello and welcome to another edition of my artist’s newsletter. Most of my time lately has been taken up with either working on commissions (which is great!) or working on getting through the remaining illustrations for my third children’s book, Rainbow Sparkles Saves the Day. This has meant I have not had much time to create my so-called production paintings. However, with several Christmas markets coming up I thought I’d better get back to it. You may have seen me post about this painting before but, being oil, wasn’t quite finished, but it is now and I thought I’d share it with you.
Painting Description
This stunning oil on canvas, titled Urban Radiance, measures 12 x 12 inches and is a vibrant example of how abstract art can blur the boundaries between seemingly unrelated elements. The piece combines strong geometric shapes, notably intersecting white lines reminiscent of the Cornish flag, with a vivid cityscape rendered in bright orange/yellow ochre and black tones, suggesting the glow of urban life at dusk or dawn. Overlaying this scene are two large circular forms that could be interpreted as moons or planets, giving the painting a science fiction or planetary feel. This fusion of geometric abstraction, urban elements, and cosmic themes invites the viewer into a futuristic world that feels both grounded and otherworldly.
How Combining Styles and Elements Can Create Impactful Art
Urban Radiance exemplifies how art can combine distinct styles and symbols to create a cohesive and captivating whole. This painting belongs to the genre of geometric abstraction, a style that uses shapes, lines, and forms to convey emotion and meaning. However, what makes Urban Radiance particularly compelling is the way it introduces figurative elements, such as the cityscape, into an otherwise abstract setting. The juxtaposition of a hard-edged geometric framework with the dynamic energy of an urban skyline adds an extra layer of depth and intrigue.
By doing this, Urban Radiance accomplishes something unique: it brings together a clean, modern aesthetic with the wonder of sci-fi or planetary exploration, encouraging the viewer to think about the future of cities, and space, and how these two might collide. The overlapping of what might be a flag with a futuristic landscape evokes a feeling of nostalgia for the familiar, while simultaneously launching us into the unknown.
Other Artists Who Combine Different Styles
Many artists have explored this blend of abstraction with concrete elements. Wassily Kandinsky, one of the pioneers of abstract art, often mixed fluid shapes and rigid lines to create visual harmony. Contemporary artist Julie Mehretu merges urban mapping, architectural plans, and abstract marks to suggest city life within the chaos of abstraction, creating pieces that reflect the complexity of modern existence. Similarly, Frank Stella has used geometric patterns alongside more expressive elements to create a dynamic balance of order and spontaneity. These artists, like myself, find ways to introduce the familiar within the abstract, giving the viewer something to recognise while still offering an experience of discovery.
Why It Makes for Collectible Art
Artworks that blend different styles and elements often become more than just paintings; they become conversation pieces. They invite the viewer to linger and explore the multiple layers of meaning hidden within the brushstrokes. For collectors, this dynamic fusion of ideas and genres makes pieces like Urban Radiance particularly valuable, as they can transform any space into something thought-provoking. The ability to cross genres also means such works have a broad appeal – they attract fans of minimalism, sci-fi lovers, and those who enjoy cityscapes, all at once.
Furthermore, works that take risks by combining styles tend to stand out in the art market. They show innovation, creativity, and a refusal to be boxed into one category, much like the collectors themselves who appreciate originality.
Call to Action
If Urban Radiance speaks to you, or if you’d like to see more of my work that blends different styles and ideas, please visit my website www.awberyart.com. I create unique, one-of-a-kind pieces that are never repeated or reproduced. Make sure to follow me on social media and subscribe to my newsletter to keep up with new releases, events, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content. Let’s embark on this artistic journey together!
Until next time, happy reading!
Warm regards,
Roy P. Awbery