Leaving Alhambra

These past several weeks have been rich in both research and art making. The Citadel/Oasis theme is a strong one for me and I have revisited it many times. I see it as an opportunity to explore a time of protection, respite, repose, comfort...a true time out. Dreaming of another place and time is a way of opening to new imagery, colors and textures. I began with eight first starts on 20"x20" paper and I'm showing four truly completed pieces in a small show in October. The other four are in a place of incomplete and unresolved. I might return to these four but for now I am on a new road. It's summertime and I'm anxious to play with another of my favorite subjects...the sacred vessel. Gathering materials, writing and feeling the excitement of a new challenge! How many this time? I'd like to try for 8 again as it is one of my favorite numbers.  I'm still working on creating 40 new pieces this year and if I were counting I'd say I have 21 completed since I began last autumn.

The first photo is of the Citadel and the other of a more interior view of Alhambra... taking in the beautiful ornately carved arches and sunlit fountains.This was a wonderful stopping off place for me and I will always remember these beautiful images...it was as if I was really there! The four finished pieces are under the title of Citadel in my sidebar.

Interiors

The question arises of the sought after peace and protection of the Citadel. Rooms enclosed by ornately carved window coverings...dark except for the filtered light and shadows cast by the sun and moon...living by natural light.
"Interiors" for me, reflects both the physical light and the value of a quiet mind. The purposeful awkward lines and shapes denotes the years of standing as a sacred oasis. I have so loved the research of the Alhambra and how today we are still influenced by it's art and design. 20"x20" Rives BFK, acrylic, collage, crayon, molding paste, fabric and stencil.

"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.