In his artist's statement for this show, Tobey describes these new paintings as "Rorschach tests for art lovers". Some of the forms on his canvases do resemble the famous inkblot tests, but they're far more complex and communicative than just that.

        Taking advantage of the attributes of enamel paints –– their high pigment content, viscosity and almost glass-like surface reflectance –– David first creates thick and heavy pools of pigment that appear still wet. These shiny organic forms sometimes peacefully rest within the borders of their pristine white canvases, but others morph into streams and strands, that sometimes slowly, sometimes frantically move about seeking escape at the edges or union with others.

        Some colors are subordinated by less reflectance, some not. Some quietly exist in harmony with their neighbors, but others ebb or rush into, around and between other forms of less, equal or more reflectance. Abstract forms move over and between each other sometimes slowly, sometimes violently. Dimensional relations also change as the eye moves around the canvas surface. The new characteristics of wetness, density, opacity, weight and reflectance add to the conventionally accepted attributes of color as hue, brightness and tint; and impact viewers' imaginations with new dimensions and strength.

        These paintings show absolutely no hesitancy in execution – a particularly demanding feat considering the viscosity and stubborn nature of enamel, the flow of this medium being particularly difficult to control.

        Photographs, whether on the web or printed can't possibly replicate Tobey's imaginaries adequately, so please try to visit his next one-man exhibition in New Rochelle in November to see them first hand. Or call David (914-329-2581) or email him to arrange a personal visit to see them.

         For anyone who has not yet seen the more than two dozen images of these new black & white and color enamel painrings now posted here on his web site, they are now on two pages below. # # #

VISIT ALL OF THE IMAGINARIES ON THE TWO NEW WEB PAGES