Throughout my career as an artist, I have spent countless hours creating small studies before beginning larger paintings. These studies served many purposes. They allowed me to test color relationships, explore compositional ideas, experiment with texture, and investigate new directions before committing to a larger canvas. While they were originally intended as part of my creative process, something unexpected happened over the years.
People began asking if they could purchase them.
Collectors, visitors, and followers frequently expressed interest in these small works, often commenting that they possessed a unique energy and immediacy that stood entirely on their own. What started as preliminary explorations gradually evolved into something much more significant. Rather than viewing them simply as studies, I began to recognize them as complete works in their own right.
That realization has led to the creation of a new ongoing series of original abstract oil paintings.
Each painting in the series measures 8.5″ × 11″ and is created in oil on carefully prepared archival watercolor paper. Every work is a one-of-a-kind original, individually numbered, and permanently archived as part of my documented body of work. The series will be available right here on my Small Abstract Paintings page.
From Study to Finished Work
Many artists create studies as part of their practice. Historically, studies have been used to investigate ideas before larger works are undertaken. Some remain unfinished explorations while others capture a spontaneity that can be difficult to recreate on a larger scale.
In my own work, I have always found value in these smaller pieces. They allow for freedom and experimentation. There is less pressure to achieve a predetermined result, which often leads to surprising discoveries.
Over time, many of these studies developed their own visual identity. Some contained color combinations that felt complete. Others revealed compositions that stood independently from the larger paintings they inspired. Rather than viewing them as stepping stones toward another destination, I began seeing them as destinations themselves.
This new series embraces that idea.
While the paintings may share a common origin with larger studio works, they are created and presented as complete original artworks. Each piece captures a unique moment within an ongoing exploration of abstraction.
The Appeal of Small Format Work
One of the qualities I appreciate most about small paintings is their intimacy.
Large paintings often command attention from across a room. They create an immediate presence and can dramatically influence a space. Small paintings operate differently. They invite viewers closer. They encourage a more personal interaction.
At 8.5″ × 11″, these works reveal subtle details that reward careful observation. Layers of paint, unexpected textures, delicate color transitions, and expressive gestures become more apparent as viewers spend time with each piece.
The format also allows for spontaneity. Without the physical scale of a large canvas, I can respond more directly to the painting as it develops. This often produces works that feel energetic, immediate, and highly personal.
For collectors, small-format paintings offer tremendous versatility. They can be displayed individually, grouped into larger collections, or integrated into spaces where larger works may not be practical. Whether placed in a home office, library, hallway, bedroom, or living room, they provide a meaningful connection to original art without requiring substantial wall space.
Materials and Archival Quality
Although these paintings are created on paper, considerable attention is given to ensuring their long-term durability and preservation.
Each work begins on archival-quality watercolor paper selected for its strength and stability. Before any oil paint is applied, the paper receives multiple coats of professional artist-grade gesso. This process creates a protective barrier between the oil and the paper while producing a distinctive surface texture that enhances the painting process.
The result is a durable painting surface designed to meet museum-grade archival standards.
Oil paint remains one of the most historically proven artistic mediums available. When properly applied to a prepared surface, oil paintings can endure for centuries. By combining archival watercolor paper with multiple layers of gesso and professional-grade oil paint, these works are created with longevity in mind.
Because the paintings are on paper, I recommend displaying them behind glass within a quality frame. Framing not only enhances presentation but also provides an additional level of protection, helping preserve the work for future generations.
Making Original Art More Accessible
A central goal of this project is accessibility.
Original oil paintings are often associated with large-scale works and significant investment levels. While large paintings remain an important part of my practice, I wanted to create an opportunity for a broader range of collectors to acquire original artwork.
By working within a consistent format and streamlined presentation, I am able to offer original oil paintings at more approachable price points than many larger works.
This creates opportunities for first-time collectors to begin building an original art collection while also providing established collectors with a chance to acquire unique works that complement existing collections.
Collecting original art should not be limited to a small audience. Art has the ability to enrich our lives, transform our environments, and create lasting connections. My hope is that this series allows more people to experience those benefits through the ownership of original artwork.
An Ongoing Exploration
Unlike a traditional editioned project with a fixed number of works, this series has no predetermined endpoint.
It will continue to evolve over time, growing naturally alongside my larger studio practice. Some paintings may emerge from ideas being explored for future works, while others may lead in entirely unexpected directions.
That open-ended nature is part of what excites me most about the series.
Each painting represents a moment in an ongoing creative journey. Some moments are bold and energetic. Others are quiet and contemplative. Together they create a visual archive that reflects both process and discovery.
For me, abstraction has always been about exploration. It is a way of investigating color, gesture, texture, movement, and emotion without relying on literal representation. These small paintings provide a direct and immediate way to engage with that exploration.
As the collection grows, I look forward to sharing new works and seeing how collectors connect with them.
Looking Ahead
The launch of this series marks the beginning of a new chapter within my studio practice. What began as a collection of studies has evolved into an independent body of work with its own identity, purpose, and audience.
Each painting is original. Each painting is unique. Each painting represents a single moment within a much larger creative journey.
I am excited to make these works available and grateful to the many collectors and visitors who encouraged their creation through years of interest and support.
And the series is just beginning.
– Blair
