Louie Rochon, local Whidbey Island painter is well known for his larger than life canvases, primarily depicting abstract flowers with generous use of bold, vivid color; deep reds, bright yellows set against carbon blacks and thick impasto of white and brilliant blue.
“Remixing Imagination, Daring to Defy the Status Quo” is a large collection of original paintings, many of which available for purchase. These works demonstrate a variety of styles from the past 3 years, all of which share some common techniques, his signature use of brilliant color and dramatic freestyle line work.
The Exhibit will be up for the month of November in WICA’s Kristin and Earl Lasher Gallery. There will be an opening reception during Langley’s First Saturday Art Walk, November 1st from 5 - 7PM.
Louie Rochon was best known for many years for his prolific sensual macro photography work 'of all things flowers,' until he discovered his true passion for acrylic abstract painting at age 63. "I've been searching my entire life and almost given up, but finally found the true love of my life - painting," he has said. "I've never been able to find a medium that can keep up with the depth and rapid cycling of my emotions and moods and challenges of Bipolar disorder."
Rochon adds, "Often, I paint on the floor, on vast sheets of white canvas, music blaring, on my hands and knees, wet and fast and honest, for days at a time - and it ends as sudden as it starts, always taking me by surprise. It's a deeply emotional 'trance-dance' of sorts and when the music stops, I'm completely spent - I am within my painting. In essence, it 'is' a love affair."
His work ranges from abstract to expressionist to impressionist to, well, definitely his own unique style - bold vivid color and loose flowing line work that conveys a sense of joy, hope and deep appreciation for nature. True enough there is deep sorrow in the work but there is also a great sense of life and passion and optimism that shines thru as well.
Louie’s work can be seen at his studio/gallery - Open to the public most Friday’s 1:30 to 6:00 or by appointment. 360 982-8170 to text. Rochon Fine Art. 4777 Commercial St., Clinton WA 98236