Framed: 49 7/8 x 56 1/2 inches
artist
1961 marks a pivotal moment in Totten’s career, departing from the subdued desert-inspired color palette that had characterized his previous work to embrace a more flamboyant and adventurous aesthetic, embarking on a creative exploration that resonated with the buoyant spirit of the era. This marked shift coincided with Totten’s deepening engagement with Synchromism, a movement spearheaded by Stanton MacDonald-Wright, under whose tutelage Totten had studied. Drawing inspiration from MacDonald-Wright, Totten absorbed the foundational principles of Synchromism, yet he always approached them as a catalyst for his own distinctive artistic vision.
Totten’s artistic process appears deceptively effortless, mirroring the demeanor of the man behind the brush. Modest, soft-spoken, and gentle, Totten embodied humility in his approach to his craft. Yet, beneath this unassuming exterior lay a profound commitment to his artistry. Immersed in the act of painting, Totten dedicated himself wholeheartedly to his practice, infusing each canvas with a palpable sense of daring and conviction.
To liken Totten’s oeuvre to that of luminaries such as Clifford Still or Edward Dugmore may seem audacious at first glance, however, upon closer examination, one discerns a shared mastery of abstract expressionism and a profound depth of artistic expression. Totten stands shoulder to shoulder with these titans, his capacity to produce profound abstract works attesting to his enduring legacy as a visionary artist.
Description
Totten’s painting Portuguese Bend stands out as a significant work within his oeuvre, both in scale and conceptual ambition. While the title's specific reference may be opaque, Totten's approach to abstraction suggests that the literal interpretation is secondary to the emotive and formal qualities of the work. The painting's composition is notable for its expansive use of light, where luminous whites and radiant sunlit yellows create a sense of ethereal illumination that suggests a natural source of inspiration—a recurring theme in Totten’s career.
In Portuguese Bend, Totten departs from the sharper, more defined forms seen in his earlier works. Instead, he employs a softer approach, characterized by blended edges and a harmonious interaction of varied shapes. This shift towards subtle gradations and fluid transitions enhances the painting's atmospheric quality, inviting viewers to engage with the work on a more sensory and intuitive level. The interplay of colors and forms evokes a sense of organic movement and transformation, reflecting Totten’s evolving exploration of abstraction and his engagement with the natural world. Overall, Portuguese Bend exemplifies Totten’s ability to translate his inspirations into a sophisticated visual language, blending light and form to create a resonant and immersive experience.