Blues from the Romanian Black Sea coast and greens from Northern Virginia are pulled into artist Jon Bibire's experimental art.
"For a painter, this part of the world is a wonderful environment," said Bibire.
In the spring of 2000, Bibire's day-job in electrical construction brought him from Romania to the states. He spent time in Colorado and California before settling in Reston. Living in what he calls "an ocean of green" never fails to inspire him to paint.
"I want to do at least a dot or line of color every day," said Bibire.
James W. Bailey, a board member of the League of Reston Artists (LRA) and an experimental photographer, explained that experimental art strays from conventional standards in a self-expressive way. While the genre usually takes longer to generate an audience, "[Bibire's] work is both beautiful and accessible," said Bailey.
AT THE MOMENT, three of Bibire's paintings are awaiting completion. One has been in the works for one-and-a-half years now. Bibire brings it out of the closet every so often, adding little by little. His paintings are usually finished within two weeks, at most Ñ the title is always last.
When working with water-based paint, Bibire mixes the colors with sea water, reflecting back to his days spent on the coast, to create a sparkling effect.
"All the time, I am anxious to explore and discover new matter and new techniques," said Bibire.
Bibire experiments with collages, using materials such as leaves or metal scraps to create art. Varnish is then spread over its entirety to create a lasting finish.
"My art, when it is a collage, invites the art lover to touch my painting," said Bibire. "And that's great."
The influence of Max Ernst's style, one of Bibire's favorite artists, is detected in his paintings hanging in Reston's Jasmine Cafe.
"I avoid the fragility of paper and go for the eternity of canvas," said Bibire.
A MEMBER OF the LRA for several months now, Bibire's painting "Micro Atlantida" was chosen for an equal merit award at LRA's Annual Juried Fine Arts Exhibition in June.
An award in a show Ñ where just being accepted Ñ is impressive, said Bailey. LRA's June exhibition is competitive.
"That was a good sign to keep going and explore the same path for awhile," said Bibire.
"Micro Atlantida" materialized after Bibire's first trip to Ocean City, Md. He layered his first impressions of the beach town on the canvas, representing a drop of the ocean.
Membership in the LRA has been a positive and educating experience for Bibire, who described it as a family that is always learning from each other. His decision to join the league was simple.
"I felt my style could be enjoyed through this league," said Bibire. "This is how we [the members] express ourselves."
It was more difficult for Bibire to break through into the art world in Romania. The more weathered artists didn't leave much room for the next wave of talent. Here, Bibire has found a forum for his work through the LRA.
For the future, Bibire aims for two things: painting on bigger canvases and securing his own show. Both goals are just a matter of time. The first means finding a bigger studio than the bedroom he shares with his wife. The latter translates into completion of more paintings and finding a gallery compatible with his style.
Bailey mentioned that the LRA has recently welcomed younger artists into its membership. The board members are excited that the fresh talent is seeking outlets for their work.
"I think he represents the new face of the LRA," said Bailey.