RULE-BASED ART

Rules, Chance, & Divination

Sometimes I use pre-set rules or conditions–determined by, say, a throw of dice, a random word chosen in a book, or divination (e.g., a tarot card spread, or a geomantic figure). Such constraints determine the materials to be used, techniques, and content (if any). The artist gives up some autonomy in favor of surprise, ironically resulting in “freedom” of expression. See also “automatism.”

This page is under (re)construction…

Several pages from the “Four-Letter Words” accordion-fold book. Each letter of a word chosen at random determines the materials and content. Mixed media on watercolor paper.. By Jean Vengua, 2023.
“Gross.” 10/6/2021. Ink and collage. 18×18 in, by Jean Vengua. Based on random word chosen in a dictionary.
“Puer,” 4/19/2021, Pencil and cold wax medium on heavy paper, 10×10 in. by Jean Vengua. Based on geomantic figured “Puer,” obtained through dice roll.
Crossroads_, Ink and watercolor on wood panel, 18 x 18 in. 7-17-2021_JeanVengua_rev
A line drawing done in blue ink on naturally-textured Lokta paper. The lines follow the intricate, branching texture of the paper.
“Blue Okir.” Ink and watercolor on Lokta paper, 8.5 x 11 in. 3-17-2022_ JeanVengua
“Geomancy 3,” Pencil on heavy paper, 18 x 18 in. By Jean Vengua. Based on a geomantic figure determined by dice throw.
“Geomancy 4.” Ink drawing on heavy paper, 18×18 in., by Jean Vengua. Drawing based on geomantic figure (Fortuna Major) using dice.
“Despedida,” Ink and collage on paper, 8×12 in. by Jean Vengua. Based on letters in the word “despedida.”
“Lure.” Acrylics and ink on wood panel, 6x6x1.5 in. 2021-07-10. Rule-based painting determined by random word choice By Jean Vengua.