About The Artist

ARTIST STATEMENT

My creative process begins without a predetermined vision; I approach each canvas with the intent to dismantle its perfect white surface. Through an intuitive exploration, I move paint, charcoal, pencils, and markers across the surface, making marks without a clear plan. This initial chaos is essential, as it leads me to a pivotal "huh" moment when a pathway emerges. From there, I refine the structure, develop the palette, and employ contrasts to craft a dynamic, eye-catching composition.

As an abstract expressionist, I do not work from existing subjects. Instead, my goal is to create pieces that forge a deep emotional connection and captivate the viewer’s attention. When I feel a painting has an emotional impact on me, I know it is close to realization. At that stage, I strive to deepen the work’s resonance, inviting viewers to engage with it on a psychological level and nurturing a lasting bond.

I am inspired by art that is singular and reflective of the artist’s creative journey. I want to sense the physicality, intuition, and moments of challenge and resolution embedded in a piece. To me, a painting should embody the essence of life itself — its struggles, discoveries, and triumphs.

My work is recognizable for its vibrant energy, emotional intensity, and memorable presence. I create vibrant contrasts by juxtaposing bright colors with muted tones, varied shapes with diverse textures. These contrasts complement each other, coexist in harmony, and maintain visual engagement. The use of line plays a crucial role, guiding the viewer's eye fluidly across the surface. By combining multiple materials, I produce distinct effects that enhance these contrasts and contribute to the uniqueness of each piece.

Ultimately, my art is an invitation to experience a visual and emotional journey, one that mirrors the complexity and beauty of life’s unfolding narrative.

"...my paintings are as unique as each person walking the earth. they are meant to invoke their own persona and influence the viewer in different ways. I paint without fear and without intent. I wish to explore the possibilities and be open to the dialogue that presents itself between the creator and it's creation.."

Artist Bio

Jeffrey Tover is an award-winning Northern California abstract painter.  His artistic studies have included instruction at the San Francisco Art Institute under Glenn Hirsch and various workshops and mentoring with established artists.
Jeffrey’s fondness for abstract art has been from the freedom of composition styles and the love of color, form, and line. He is primarily inspired by the works of the Abstract Expressionist artists during the Post-World War II art movement of the 1940s and 1950s.  Influences include the paintings of Robert Motherwell, Joan Mitchell, Willem DeKooning and Cy Twombly.  Utilizing a wide variety of tools and materials to create his compositions, the artist’s creations are meant to create a deeper connection with the viewer and to develop a dialogue of mutual understanding through art.
Jeffrey’s work has been purchased by private and commercial collectors throughout the USA and abroad including Europe, Asia and the Middle East.  He currently lives and maintains a studio in SF Bay Area where he teaches abstract art making techniques and professional development.