The paintings of Scottish artist Daniel Mullen are abstract yet vibrantly colorful. His paintings are created by stacking thin sheets of color in geometric patterns that seem to converge in space to make sense of depth. The images have an almost alchemic effect on the viewer’s minds, with each layer blending into the next and creating a visual feast for your eyes! “I’m more interested in Rothko’s body of work now, and I’m focusing on the vibrations of color and the almost alchemic effect that his paintings have on the senses.” The Rotterdam-based artist adds.

The acrylic paintings on linen are studied in precision, geometry, and perception, with each element colliding in a mathematically aligned composition. Before laying the faint, transparent lines, Mullen takes measurements and tapes the various planes. “The final result of this is that the work grows over time, with irregularities, brush strokes, and bleeding paint contributing to a work that breathes life into color and grows through the power of color.” He continues:

The forms may appear to refer to glass panels or other architectural designs, but they’re only scaffolding for the viewer to get a sense of place within. The aim is to go toward an idea of ekstasis, imagined and undiscovered, or the radiant energy of the universe. In today’s fast-paced, highly digitized world, we can question the symbols of power and location.

The pieces in this display were created during Mullen’s collaborative synesthesia series, which translates non-visual senses to the canvas—he and artist Lucy Cordes Engelman will continue to work on this idea during a residency in upstate New York early next year. You may keep up with the latest developments in that body of work and have a look at more recent results on Instagram.

Website:Daniel Mullen