Wednesday, October 31, 2012

abstract versus realist: brenda k. bredvik and tom swimm

In love, everyone knows opposites attract. Said Andy Warhol, "The most exciting attractions are between two opposites that never meet." 

Two polar opposites, abstract artistic Brenda K. Bredvik and realist artist Tom Swimm co-created an exhibit and then held their joint opening night reception, Saturday, October 27, 2012 at the Pacific Edge Gallery in Laguna Beach, California,.

Roses in the Window versus Trio.

Tom Swimm
Realist, Tom Swimm

Brenda K. Bredvik
Abstract, Brenda K. Bredvik

Who won this dual? You decide.

The artists chose the same scenes to paint, but because of their unique points of view, the final work was quite different. Bredvik, the abstract artist, said she enjoyed co-creating the show with Swimm, the realist, not only because she painted objects and vistas that she ordinarily wouldn't have, but she liked the collaborative process between the two artists, culminating in the show.

Tom Swimm and Brenda K. Bredvik

Take a look for yourself. Floating Colors versus Lily Pads. Swimm is well known for his exceptional use of light and color. The first painting in the series is easily mistaken for a photograph.

Tom Swimm
Realist, Tom Swimm

Tom Swimm
Realist, Tom Swimm

Brenda K. Bredvik
Abstract, Brenda K. Bredvik

In the Pacific Edge Gallery

Above China Cove versus Cove.

Tom Swimm
Realist, Tom Swimm

Brenda K. Bredvik
Abstract, Brenda K. Bredvik

The Old Boardwalk versus Boardwalk.

Tom Swimm
Realist, Tom Swimm


Brenda K. Bredvik
Abstract, Brenda K. Bredvik

This is my favorite pairing, Front Row Seating versus Chairs. The proportion of these two pictures in person is stark. The realist picture is 10" by 20"  and the abstract picture is 44" by 62". 

Tom Swimm
Realist, Tom Swimm

Brenda K. Bredvik
Abstract, Brenda K. Bredvik


These next two don't exactly go together but are a similar subject from very different perspectives. Southern Afternoon versus Buoy. Swimm included several rowboat and sailboats in the exhibit. Bredvik made her point of view clear.


Tom Swimm
Realist, Tom Swimm

Brenda K. Bredvik
Abstract, Brenda K. Bredvik

A bold abstract from Bredvik, which lacked a matching realist.

Brenda K. Bredvik
Abstract, Brenda K. Bredvik

Outside Pacific Edge Gallery.

Brenda K. Bredvik


Charming rowboat anchored on Balboa Island from Swimm.

Tom Swimm
 Realist, Tom Swimm

I am partial to this abstract still life by Bredvik. Probably the chartreuse and red-orange.

Brenda K. Bredvik
Abstract, Brenda K. Bredvik

From fashaddix.com

Catch the two opposite artists at Pacific Edge Gallery, located at 540 South Coast Highway, #112, Laguna Beach, CA 92651. Hours are Mon-Tues, 1pm-5pm and Wed-Sun, 11am-6pm.

2 comments:

  1. The two painters create an interesting juxtaposition. I admire the skill of the realist Swimm, but Bredvik's paintings speak to me on a more emotional level. I, like you, appreciate her use of color.

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    Replies
    1. The compare and contrast of the work in this show was outstanding. I liked the continuity between the two as well. I am a sucker for splashy color, though. I must admit.

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