Artist statement
This current body of work is inspired by the illuminated pages of medieval European, Persian, Islamic, and Indian manuscripts. The images communicate through an elaborate visual language, using intricate designs and patterns that are decorative, yet also meant to convey information, to tell a story in an abstract visual form. The geometric patterns are beautiful images in their own right, with their own autonomous identity. The designs from vastly different cultures show more similarity than difference, giving my exploration a deeper meaning in this turbulent state of cultural understanding; a way of discerning cultural parallels in a world that separates and polarizes us.
The use of gold leaf in my work continues this exploration of parallels. Gold has been revered by cultures all over the world and throughout history. It seems to contain light within itself, rather than reflect it from another source. Gold seems to have a naturally spiritual nature, and I love the way the way it appears to “hum” on the surface, shimmering with a light that transcends the flat plane.
The paint is egg tempera- the binder for the paint being the simple yolk of an egg. Egg tempera has been used for thousands of years, especially in European panel painting, but dating back to the Egyptians. It is like continuing a long lineage, standing on the shoulders of all those who came before, yet still speaking in my own voice. I love the act of rolling the yolk, the smooth and creamy consistency of the paint, the way it moves on the surface. The egg yolk is translucent, so the color remains intensely vibrant, creating a beautiful luminous paint surface. The pigments are natural, made primarily from earth and minerals, but also at times from plants and insect sources. I love the intimacy I feel with the natural world through the paint.
I am continually inspired by the intensity and luminosity of the colors. Through the use of natural materials, vibrant living color, and the luminosity of the gold, my hope is that these paintings, in some small way, thoughtfully create a sense of mystery, beauty and grace.