 I was asked about some symbols in one of my paintings recently, and honestly, I was surprised. Why, yes, I do use some Chahta iconography in my paintings if it suits the subject. I save those symbols for my nature-inspired pieces, like my rock paintings. The Chahta symbol for nature is one I've used many times, and it's easy to spot. No matter the size of the painting, it really pops.
Another one I use often is a stylized form of the crossed kapucha sticks. To clarify: it's not a cross; it's an "X". I recently used rocks from my collection to make a stylized nature symbol titled "It's in My Nature", (17" x 17"), which I'm sharing here. I likely won't enter this into an exhibition, so please just enjoy it here. There are other symbols I use as well, but those are meanings I only share in person. Back to my brushes. "Nature is the source of all true knowledge." - Leonardo da Vinci
0 Comments
I am so gratified to be included as a finalist in this year's The Best of Watercolor: Splash 27 presented by Artists Magazine and American Artist (Golden Peak Media). This painting took way too long to complete, but I am very pleased with the result. Both the digital version and the print edition are available now both online at Artists Network and at your local bookstore. Pick up your copy soon! Back to my brushes.
"It does not matter how slow you go as long as you do not stop." - Confucius  So, while I am working on my newest series, I'll continue with these side-quest pieces. One of my favorites is this painting titled On the Wing, (as I recall about 18x18) which I chose to paint on Fabriano paper. This paper was perfect for this subject, but it performs differently than Arches, so be mindful of your paper choices. I particularly enjoy Fabriano for portraits.
The background was inspired by a section of graffiti; by changing the direction over and over, I thought it created a rope-like quality that translated well. By using one of the more graceful parts of the form as the focus, I believe it showcases the subject's youth and vulnerability. Despite her youth, her deep empathy allows her to listen and understand beyond surface-level words. I felt this was well represented by her flawless ear. Both the hair and the collar of her jacket evoke a bird's wing, which, of course, was part of the narrative. Back to my brushes. "And all the lives we ever lived and all the lives to be are full of trees, and changing leaves" - Virginia Wolf |
|
RSS Feed