The skateboard shape has always struck me as the contemporary equivalent of the marble tablets that the Ten Commandments were purportedly carved on. Rather than carving I chose to execute them in paint, collage and assemblage.
A number of the objects were outright purchases because of uniqueness, oddity, or specificity for a particular tablet, and a number of objects were truly found objects picked from the streets on one of my daily walks. As the tablets developed from thumbnails to actual size, there was lots of changing and rearranging, adding or subtracting and discovery along the way.
The use of the crucifix forms as pawns in game pieces or with target backs maybe offensive to some, but I have always appreciated and admired the cruciform for the aesthetic value and maintain a deep spiritual association with the iconography.
Each tablet is self-contained and meant to let the viewer decide what the underlying social commentary or moral is. Some are specific and some are left intentionally morally ambiguous.
The skateboards cartouche-like shape lent itself naturally to the progression of the elements unfolding from top to bottom, and satisfied my inclination for order and symmetry.
Humor has always played a significant factor in my art. My art tends to be of a whimsical, narrative vein. I like working in a variety of themes and series in an attempt to both amuse and create dialogue.
BELL TOWER SERIES
The Bell Tower series consists of eight 10” x 10” acrylic o/wood panels w/brass bells and dimensional matchstick crosses.
The panels were completed over a five-day period from October 18-23, 2021. They reference the architecture in and around Santa Fe and the surrounding New Mexico communities.
I have always found the sounds of chimes and bells especially moving and soothing, and decided to add a whimsical auditory element to the panels in a low-tech interactive manner. So, ring the bells, but be careful to curb your enthusiasm in doing so!
A Reception will be held on FRIDAY, JUNE 2, from 7 - 8:30 PM. Free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served.
