For some artists, the act of creation is a detailed examination of reality.  For others, the creation comes spontaneously from the artist’s imagination.

Jon Luoma, of Alna, Maine and a member of the Stable Gallery in Damariscotta, approaches his painting as a poet. Jon immerses himself in a setting by walking an area, observing, listening and smelling.  The painting evolves later from Jon’s recollections.

Each painting thus becomes an act of meditation. Luoma creates the painting based on what he recalls of the scene plus what he decides the painting needs to be whole.  As Jon says, “Painting is like nature when you put the brush to the painting.  It is an act of creation.”

Luoma graduated from Marlboro College in Vermont with an art degree. He was an editorial illustrator for various publications, including The Maine Times, and illustrated a letterpress edition of Thoreau, "The Maine Woods.” 

The multi-talented Jon also plays viola with the Midcoast Symphony Orchestra as well as several jazz bands.

Later in life, Luoma sought out an opportunity to study art in China using watercolor and Chinese inks, where he was influenced by the idea of artist as poet.  The Chinese idea is to reflect on the subject and paint later. The goal is to pay attention to your whereabouts, soaking in the place with all your senses.

As Jon explains, “There may be empty spaces that the artist fills in with his or her imagination.  Then the viewer can move through a painting like an Oriental garden with paths and specially placed stones and vistas.”

The Stable Gallery features Jon’s paintings through Aug. 9.  Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., the gallery is located at 26 Water Street.  For more information, visit stablegallerymaine.com or call 207-563-1991.