The Buzz

This 15″ x 10″ gouache painting depicts the singer Chris Cornell (1964-2017), most known from the alternative metal band Soundgarden. The concert lighting and smoke, as well as the high-contrast color choices are intended to dramatize his position as the lead performer. As one of my favorite singers, he was a worthwhile subject to paint in order to emphasize the importance of music and performance in my life. The piece is also meant to highlight the value of performance in culture, both in the past and today, showing how artists and musicians are often influential figures in the lives of many. I chose to use gouache, a medium that encapsulates the characteristics of both acrylic and watercolor paint, because it is a very fun medium to work with. The painting process was entertaining for me, both because of the medium I used and the subject I chose to paint.