Ralph A. Long III

As an artist, I've always been drawn to the natural beauty of blue slate stones often seen in sophisticated landscaping projects across Georgia and beyond. This piece was inspired by that same aesthetic, using leftover blue paint from my Georgia painting. Working with a smaller canvas, much like my Mars painting, I incorporated sheetrock mud to add depth and texture. I experimented with plastic bags, sweeping them across the right side to create ridges and dynamic textures. Subtle hints of burgundy seep through the layers—another remnant of my Georgia painting—bringing a rich contrast that adds warmth and character to the piece

This piece captures the feeling of reaching out and touching the surface of Mars. Inspired by my love for the color orange, I aimed to recreate the planet’s rugged terrain by layering paint to build up texture and depth. I enjoy working with everyday materials like sheetrock mud, spray paint, and basic paints to bring my creative vision to life in a raw and unconventional way.

Possibly one of my favorite creations. When you free your mind and let the art guide you, the process becomes incredibly fulfilling. This painting marked the first time I used precise measurements, incorporating screws to create evenly spaced segments for tying strings. These strings were used to control the flow of paint, either holding or releasing it in specific areas. I applied geometric principles to divide the canvas into balanced, proportioned shapes that intersect parallel and horizontal lines. By exercising restraint when painting over these lines, I aimed to subtly reveal the techniques behind the structured patterns, blending order with creativity

I was inspired by the purchase of a new home with many walls to fill, which sparked a rush of creativity that led to the creation of 'Indian Chief of Tools.' With a love for tools and spray paint, I incorporated various items like hammers, bush trimmers, rakes, and even a stone chisel hammer into the piece. I also enjoy adding texture to my paintings using a mixture of sheetrock. The name 'Indian Chief of Tools' comes from the illusion within the painting—if viewed in the right light, you can make out the figure of a chief, complete with feathers and all.

While studying at The Art Institute, I explored the techniques of Jackson Pollock and was tasked with creating a method painting inspired by his style. The navy blue base had been sprayed onto the canvas years earlier, making it a perfect choice for this assignment. The white paint used is Behr White Semi-Gloss from Home Depot.

After losing my re-election for State House District 61, I was overwhelmed with a deep sense of love and patriotism for my country and my state. I wanted to create something that would forever connect me to Georgia. My passion for texture drove this piece, as I incorporated varying patterns and parallel lines to give it grit and character. The color palette—orange, burgundy, black, and powder blue—adds a rustic charm to the painting, reflecting Georgia's rich heritage. The state’s unique and striking shape is both beautiful and challenging to capture, but it remains the centerpiece of this work.