Tantalizing Shapes

(in response to a series of preparatory studies for a large abstract canvas, by John Atkin, dated Dec.31,2023) [*] .............................. Tantalizing, because the gradients of color are meted out by a scheme I don't know; The shapes are suitable for setting off the sheerest thresholds of contrast... Color's value is shown off all the more where distinguishing it takes attention, As if a continuum of shading went through stages of infra-mince, Leaving a record of shift and tension, a fertile search for equilibrium. The tiling of of shapes across the surface is irregular but integrated, As if the sections had been given some degree of agency during formation; They functioned as biomorphs as they sought a mutual accommodation, Insinuating themselves into interstices among each other, obeying energizing signals, Generating internal warmth, pulling each other like the slowest taffy Until the embarrassments of fleshly over-and-underreach made themselves felt, Until congealment took over and they settled into stony shapes, But still the history of their warm churn is written in their interlock.