Artist Statement
Each
painting is a synthesis of the varied cultural influences that have shaped
my visual consciousness. These influences are entered into a painting.
Whether it is a painting of the skyscape, abstract expression of figures,
or my continual series of blind angels, the order of complexity that results
is intended to convey a simple message: Reverence for life and the human
spirit!
The
idea of angels has, forever, intrigued and fascinated man. I never really
sought the idea of painting angels, let alone blind or wounded ones. I
began this ongoing series of “Blind Angels” in 1999, quite
literary, by accident. One evening while painting a more realistic nude,
I noticed a faint image of what resembled wings about the figure. I took
the opportunity to elaborate the shadows within the wing shaped form.
Thus began my conceptual idea of angels which prompted other ideas about
angels and their places, rather than a heavenly dwelling.
Could it be that they are here, a few feet above us? If so, could they feel sorrow, pain, heart ache, susceptible to all, if not more than that of our human senses? Is it possible for we mere mortals to hold them longer than is really necessary for our needs? Could we wrap them, tie them, so that they can’t leave, perhaps even hold them hostage? These painting are not to prove answers, but to convey a much more beautiful idea: What if?
Could it be that they are here, a few feet above us? If so, could they feel sorrow, pain, heart ache, susceptible to all, if not more than that of our human senses? Is it possible for we mere mortals to hold them longer than is really necessary for our needs? Could we wrap them, tie them, so that they can’t leave, perhaps even hold them hostage? These painting are not to prove answers, but to convey a much more beautiful idea: What if?
“Paint
the spirit of the bird, not the feathers of the bird.” - Robert
Henri
