I’m excited about a new series I’ve been working on for the past few months.
The work is a radical departure from previous efforts and combines my love of sculpture, photography, painting and drawing.
These posted images are of photo transfers and acrylic skins on steel plate. I’m working in copper, aluminum and brass, as well as dimensional formats. The “paintings” combine my current images of contemporary structures with my father, grandfather’s and great-grandfather’s photographic portraits.
The pieces give form to my interest in genetic memory and it’s impact on our beliefs and choices.
Friend and teacher, Corrine Loomis Diets, visited my studio recently. While she taught me the initial transfer techniques she remarked that she’s never seen anyone try color photo transfers or photo skins on larger metal supports. She was so enamored we took a field trip to my favorite suppliers so she could try a few for herself.
It’s always gratifying when explorative efforts spark creative dialogue.
Communion. Photo transfer and skins on steel, 18” x 12”.
The first larger effort and while technically this falls a bit short of my imaginitive mark, the communication of intent is satisfied. Communion combines my image of the Florence, Oregon bridge with a portrait my father took in the early 1950’s.
No Clearance. Photo skins on steel, 18” x 12”.
Images of my father as a young boy (photographed by his father), and my father at the end of his life, illustrate the impact of self as observer in our lives. The structure is a railroad stop in Chewelah, Washington.