"Sweet the Marrow"
Oil on Canvas
36'' X 24''
Narrative.
My current paintings are primarily focused on the Narrative. This series combines my interest in Minimalism, and Literalism. I use hand-painted words to create a form in an expanded field of imagery.
The oil is applied in my handwriting, or stenciled. Variance of stroke, pressure, speed, material, surface, color and size collide to arrive at a unitary character.
This reflects my personal interpretation of the words. There is no hierarchy or focal point, just repetition and rhythm. The physicality of each jumble alludes to the emotion and the energy that the literal readings convey.
The overlapping words may beg deciphering, but cryptography is not the goal. Just as notes appear to dance on the staff line, the words make a statement beyond their literal meaning. The kinetic energy of the handwritten word, taking a corporeal shape and status, conjures a new interpretation.
As my Narrative series of work evolved, a variation of paintings that are starkly readable emerged. Instead of purposefully illegible words, the prose takes a bold stance addressing the human condition, and social issues. The viewer is almost forced to read the words, as they are so pronounced within these paintings.
“Indescribable, John Lewis”
36.5” x 28.5’’
Mixed Media on Panel
2021
I am truly in awe of John Lewis. It is unimaginable to me how he endured a lifetime of monumental injustices, but remained unwavering in his practice of non-violence. He faced daunting obstacles but his achievements were extraordinary. His character, tenacity, bravery and faith in a more just society make him a legend.
The Presidential Medal of Freedom covers Lewis' mug shot necklace. I wrote his final valedictory message on his jacket. And because he was so patriotic, despite multiple beatings, I added the words RED, WHITE and beaten black & BLUE.
"O Muse"
Oil on Canvas
35'' X 23''
"M + Y"
Oil on Canvas
17.5'' X 24''
"Trust Your Gut"
Oil on Paper
22'' X 30''
"Greatest Project of All"
Oil on Canvas
60'' X 48''
"569 Agonizing Seconds in May"
Oil Pen on Canvas
53'' X 40.5''
"Seeking"
Oil on Canvas
36.5'' X 28.5''
"Ode to Elijah Cummings"
Oil on Canvas
25'' X 16.25''
"Life That is Waiting"
Oil on Canvas
56'' X 44''
"Believe in Your Fucking Self"
Oil on Canvas
35'' X 23''
"VIRUS"
Mixed Media on Mat Board
18'' X 20''
I prefer to accentuate the positive but this is the exception. The former president perfectly fits the definition of virus: a corrupting influence on morals or the intellect; poison. Background is partial list of Covid deaths from the NY Times.
