Reality, with An Abstract Twist

Bogwater Jim

Lafayette, NJ 07848

973-383-6057

Richard Kapral's paintings are like New Year's Day...everyday, all year long. Ordinary subjects are seen with a fresh eye. The colors are alive. The compositions are quirky and, no matter how many times I study them, I always find a surprise that makes the painting new, all over again.

For example, "Windowledge" (pictured) is a "view" for the viewer. The outside world lies on the other side. We must look through. The landscape sometimes seems somber. At other times...dramatic, as if a storm is moving in, while we are safe inside, looking out. In certain light, the painting is playful and all about the friendly objects inside, with peaches rolling along the bottom edge, about to fall off.

I guess Richard's paintings are like life itself...reality at the whim of perception. It's all in the way we look at things.

Christmas "Cookie"

Bogwater Jim

Lafayette, NJ

973-383-6057

It happens every year as the Holidays approach. Everyone gets into the spirit and starts decorating...hanging festive ornaments, bows and greenery. I resist. In fact, my reputation as a Humbug is well-known. But this year, an old bottle rack just wouldn't take "No" for an answer. Every spoke begged for a shiny red ornament. Then, a wirework bust that just fit the top appeared in a friend's garage. I swiped it. A few leafy branches, a handful of rhinestones, an old leather belt and a Christmas Party Girl began to emerge. Too short! Quick...several glass blocks and a dusty, old foundry pattern elevated her standing in the world.

So far, everyone that has seen her smiles.

Who said I don't like Christmas?