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.
Geographical locations are often referenced, albeit abstractedly, in Totten’s painting, manifesting themselves within the color, light, and composition. Cabrillo Morning is no exception however another explanation for the verticality of this painting, a rare format for the artist, may derive from a monument to a Spanish explorer who was also the namesake of the city of Cabrillo.
Our understanding of the source of inspiration is secondary however to the pure enjoyment of Totten’s painting. The balanced composition, with its rich palette of teal, orange, and green, conveys a warmth that feels both inviting and invigorating. These colors do not simply represent a geographical location; they evoke an emotional landscape, capturing the essence of light and atmosphere in a way that resonates deeply with the viewer. The fluidity of the forms and their gentle interconnections suggest a dialogue between the elements, embodying a sense of tranquility and dynamism.