"Nightfall at the Citadel"

Before large cities and their grids that electrify the night there were nights with different views of the sky. Alive with colors opaque or as thin as smoke, planets and stars shining like precious colored stones. "Nightfall at the Citadel" surprised me as I had a very different beginning approach but as I collaged this, painted that, everything became walls and windows. To me, reflecting ethereal dreams or fading shadows.The silence of night, hardly a sound but an occasional angel song or faint footsteps on the staircase between many worlds...imagination runs wild in the dark  The fragrance sweet in the still night air. Rest at the Citadel would be imperative, the deafening silence, the comfort of silk and wool rugs and pillows. A perfect darkness and healing time for every tired bone. 20"x20" Rives BFK, collage, acrylic, graphite, glazes, molding paste.

Our neighborhood pool association is having a holiday BBQ and is taking the menu a step up....grilled salmon. We just refinished the concrete surrounding our pool and will be upgrading the bathrooms and showers in the adjoining cabana. With gas prices so high, I think my neighborhood pool will be my new staycation! I'm staying home and staying happy.  Have a great holiday!

Silent Alcove

This piece began with my admiration of this vase in the center. I couldn't help admire such a beautiful shape, the calligraphy and the still strong color. The name of the artisan is forgotten as his hands and eyes...all turned to dust but yet this vase remains. The citadel,for me, must have places of silence, maybe secret spaces....alcoves, tiled walls, and silk fabrics.
20"x20" Rives BFK, acrylic, stencils, collage, fabric, silk and lace, graphite and glazes.

Starts and Stops

It's been a very busy Spring here at the beach and my studio time has been catch as I can. I've posted this first piece of the new Citadel/Oasis series. I don't believe it is truly finished but the paper has taken all it can of my paint/glazing and if I add too much more it is sure to shred itself before my eyes. I began with molding paste, stencils, spray paint, lace, grid and paint and more paint.I can see places to possibly lighten or darken but mostly feel it's time to move on to the next one. I have also posted the piece at its beginning when I first began with basic shapes and a loose idea of a garden. The gardens of Alhambra are serene, warm with fragrant trees and shrubs and always water...a purposeful place, a garden of peace and tranquil thoughts.

I will be ready for my critique Friday with this one above almost finished piece and seven beginning pieces.