New abstract oil paintings—I am still tentatively venturing into this old and new world of color in these, a return to my roots.

“Driftin'” with Herbie Hancock, abstract oil by Marilyn Wells, 20″ x 24″ 182O

My roots in abstract oil painting began in my first art classes, as we were already in front of the living Rothkos exhibited in Lincoln, Nebraska at that time.

I sat in awe on the floor admiring the pulsating reds of Mark Rothko

I believe the paintings of that era were indelibly ingrained in my heart and soul. It feels like coming home.

The above abstract oil was simply based on the piece of music that caught my attention the other day, “Driftin'” by Herbie Hancock.

I downloaded the music and listened to it several times as I was actually painting the abstract oil. It was very gratifying and I am happy with the result.

“I Am, O Anxious One” -from Rilke 104O by Marilyn Wells, abstract oil, 30″ x 40″, on canvas

“I am, O Anxious One

…Don’t you hear my voice…?

If you are the dreamer, I am what you dream.

But when you want to wake, I am your wish,

and grow strong…

above the strange and distant city, Time.”

Rilke – (I am, O Anxious One. Don’t you hear my voice)

“Book of Hours” 104O

I have to believe more people today speak the language of abstract. The text is absorbed along with the painting; neither stands alone. This is what has changed since I begain painting some years ago.

I hope you will send me your comments on these and my previous blog post abstract oil, and I hope you can get into these images. They seem to resonate with others I have shown them to…