Statement

Joe Novak has been a painter for over 30 years. His paintings, many on a large scale, are abstract excursions into color and light, with the works on canvas tending toward the monochromatic and incorporating tonal gradations that infuse them with a meditative quality. The manner in which the paintings are illuminated is an integral element in the presentation of the work, resulting in glowing surfaces of color and light.

During the nineties, in a project called “Light Emanations”, using a computerized lighting controller and multiple light circuits, he created and exhibited programs of changing light levels and configurations on large paintings, which extended the visual experience to include the elements of time, movement and change.

In recent years he has pursued his interest in color and light on a smaller scale with monotypes, small paintings, drawings, assemblages, mixed media and prints. He has typically worked in series, focusing on a particular medium for periods of up to several years. Among these are “Meditations” (color pencil drawings), “Voices” (color aquatint etchings), “Echoes” (painting assemblages with minerals) and “Colors” (miniature panel paintings).

Novak has said: “Creating art is a journey that is challenging, fulfilling and sometimes magical. For me it is about having a vision, doing the work, being open, taking risks, respecting the materials and listening to the eye.”