"Neighbors" 18" x 18" Mixed Media on Wood Panel ©Tom Hlas 2013. All rights reserved.
Abstract Mixed Media Paintings
My art is abstract, nonrepresentational mixed media paintings. Often times my paintings are informed by memories, thoughts and musings. At other times, my paintings are inspired by colors around me and by nature, particularly the ever changing sky and the rural and urban landscapes.
My work is about my internal life, which in turn, I hope connects with viewers' internal life. It's about a sense of place ... a place where one can go to belong, to be at home. Perhaps that's why having an experience of depth, of going into the painting, is so important to me.
Often times my paintings are informed by memories, thoughts and musings. At other times, my paintings are inspired by colors around me and by nature, particularly the ever changing sky and the rural and urban landscapes.
One can readily see an element or symbol that’s a part of my mark making is a circle which in turn morphs into meandering squiggles, dots, arches and bowl shapes. The circle is a primal mark denoting creation, infinity, unity and wholeness with its sacredness and sensuality.
I find inspiration in childhood memories, family stories and my Czech heritage. I find a kinship in the abstract expressionists and color field painters of yesteryear as well as the print makers and minimalist artists of today.
In short, my work is a geography of the heart and mind.