In the Beginning and Chance Meeting #1:

The name for the original painting "Chance Meeting #1," came to after the works completion. Reviewing the piece, I recognized quickly the presence of two figures interacting, or about to interact. It struck me that their meeting was completely unplanned and of great surprise. Arms at their sides, they show us just how unprepared they both are for what was about happen. This feeling, this level of surprise and excitement of running into an old friend in a least likely local, has happened to us all. It surely puts a great smile, or mood of some sort, - to the rest of our day afterwards.   

Chance Meeting Series Works & Chance Meeting #3:

I found the original take away so very compelling that a series has now begun. Subsequently though, after further discussion with other viewers of the piece, I discovered that these paintings can be perceived quite differently to others. My original concept of a grand reunion was perceived by a patron one day quite differently icon, they saw it as a representation of our growing "disassociation" in the world. So I will write a little on that perception of the piece.

These paintings can also evidently be viewed as two nondescript figures meeting, - but NOT interacting. Seen on another level, these paintings can speak on the worlds growing level of disassociation among people. Directly and indirectly, this concept is relating then to our new and modern so called friendships. Friendships driven through social media and modern technology. For younger generations, they now have many, many more acquaintances, but likely fewer true friends. The digital generation claim massive friendships, but are they really? Most see far fewer real confidants being developed these days. Over recent time, the world is seemingly and sadly developing into a place with fewer solid and real bonds. The world is seen now with less people holding hands when they walk, less open public displays of affection, and surely a lot less eye contact on the streets. 

I would say this feeling of a greater disassociation among us can be validated by the growing amount of violence in our country and around the world. There is little doubt that our modern lack of real and tangible communication is one of the factors. As with all the great wars throughout history, it has been (and will always be) easier to hurt and destroy the lives of whom do not really know individually, and personally. 

So, interestingly -  I will let decide on these paintings and their meaning as they are so obviously dichotomous.

I have created, and will create, all of these series paintings with positive and beautiful energy. The energy of a "Chance Meeting" of great friends. But, as mentioned above and at times seen by others, there are other take always. An interpretation of a world that needs help. A world that needs to come together again and suggests we get to know each other once again...but this time in person.