Josh Smith (b. 1976)

“Nature is more inspiring in a straightforward way—in a ‘Paint me’ or ‘Enjoy me’ way. It doesn’t get me to make the paintings I want to make. I made those palm tree paintings and monochromes in response to that. Initially I had no idea why I was doing these paintings, but now I realize that that was it. I always wanted a monochrome painting, and I always wanted a palm tree painting. I guess that’s why. It’s also just this kind of escapism.” – Josh Smith