Artist Statement

I’ve set about to paint over that which I have painted in the past, ridding the new work of any reference, going the surface material malleably. Ribbons of color, in contrasting shapes, directions and patterns, give old paintings new meaning, as each arrives at self-sufficiency.

My father once said to me, “Son, if you live long enough, you’ll get old.” Now, retired from the distraction of employment and living in bonus time health-wise, painting has the importance it first had, but without the driven purpose. I no longer have anything to prove. Painting is finally free.

Jerry Walden
January 8, 2009