This spring I will have three new paintings showing in Rites of Spring, also presented by the Brooklyn Waterfront Artists Coalition (BWAC) at the pier in Red Hook. These pieces are from my current series, The Nature of Being, which explores the human condition and questions of existence through imagery and concepts inspired by nature, especially plant growth and development (artist’s statement).
Unfurling, 2017, oil on canvas, 24″x30″x1.5″
Inspired by the petals of flowers uncoiling from the center of buds, this painting is about opening oneself up and having faith in the universe, as flowers show faith in the benevolence of each spring. It is only through trusting and unfurling that we can fully experience life, even in uncertain times.
Sanctuary, 2017, oil on canvas, 24″x30″x1.5″
I imagined the leaves of a large tropical plant wrapping around a person and protecting humanity, as a parallel for the way the mind must sometimes protect and provide sanctuary for secret wishes, thoughts, hopes, and fears. By being open to vulnerability and extending oneself freely, we find that the more we give, the stronger and braver we can become.
Effusion, 2017, oil on canvas, 24″x30″x1.5″
Based on the fast flow of rivers and streams, this image evokes the movement of water and tides in a sense of openness, if the artificial borders between people were dissolved and our thoughts and better intentions could flow freely and limitlessly between each other.
Rites of Spring is on view every weekend May 13 through June 18, 1-6pm with an opening reception this Saturday.
481 Van Brunt Street, Door 7
Red Hoook, Brooklyn (view map)
www.bwac.org
There are also great performances every weekend and an amazing variety of work on view. I hope you’ll check it out!