Phenomena

Paul Jenkins was an avid reader of Kant, and his works taking the name of "phenomenon" can be viewed in the light of the philosopher's definition:

"a compound of what we receive from impressions and of what our own faculty of knowledge draws from itself"

This shape in the middle of the work, devoid of watercolour, evokes the triangle of colours that Goethe speaks of in his Treatise on Colours. Jenkins being a follower of the conception proposed by the author, we can think that he has imbibed it in his work.

Goethe begins chapter six of his work as follows: "[Colour] exerts, when alone, a specific effect, and in combination an effect on the one hand harmonious, on the other hand characteristic, often also disharmonious, but always unquestionable and important; this effect directly affects the moral nature. This is why colour, as an element of art, can be used and can collaborate for the highest aesthetic ends".

Thus, the colors are affixed to the paper handled by the painter so that they flow in a certain way. These drips and superimpositions, whose arrangement is unique and characteristic, nevertheless form a harmonious whole creating a timeless aesthetic pleasure in the viewer.