This months Artists Statement: Greer Olsen

Art to me, from the earliest cave paintings to the present day is an endeavour of the human spirit.
My first foundation in starting to paint was a little book by Kandinsky - an early abstractionist called On the spiritual in art. I discovered this while studying art history in the 1970s and from this explored various approaches and influences. My work probably falls under the broad church of abstract expressionism.
I think a lot of my process evolves out of a random use of colour and mark making that I begin a dialogue with, this takes place over time - weeks or months and has a physicality and intuitiveness that I enjoy. However sometimes it is something in the natural world that pushes me to begin. 
I recently saw Necessary Distractions at the Auckland Art Gallery, and especially liked the works of Barbara Tuck for their upside-downness but coherence.
Kumeu Arts Centre is a lovely venue and a great hub for encouraging a creative community.