Portraits – Abstract Realism with Expressive Brushstrokes
Discover abstract realism portraits that balance recognizable forms with bold, dripping paint and expressive brushstrokes. Each portrait conveys emotion, depth, and energy, creating an unforgettable visual experience. Ideal for collectors, galleries, and interior designers looking for unique, impactful portrait art.
John Robertson has painted hundreds of portraits and figurative paintings of musicians, sports figures, and people he meets on the street. All Paintings are approximately 50" by 70", acrylic on unstretched canvas. All these portraits are privately owned. For discussion of commission for a painting of a family member or friend (or your pet) please contact me through the "about/contact" link above.
Context in Painting a Portrait
"WHEN PAINTING A PORTRAIT a relationship is established," says Robertson. "I try and peel away the layers and bare their inner soul. The person knows I may distort their perception of themselves and understand that identity is something more than a visual representation. I don't feel a need to reproduce a face. I'm more interested in the idea of the person. I want to challenge people to think and to react - but not necessarily see an exact likeness of the person." Some of the portraits have drawn concern about the implications of the image. Robertson admits that, "The harsher the image the more reaction I get. Some of these portraits may be a little hard but most subjects appreciate my strong point of view and like to see themselves interpreted in this manner."
JOHN ROBERTSON EXPLORES an unconventional approach toward portrait painting, by turning from traditional representation to emotional and psychological investigation. Robertson uses conflicting colors, dripping and splattered paint to create a particular insight. This leads to a psychological narrative and all its implications as a conceptual representation of the subject.
