Some say that the flame is a mythological gift from the gods — a force that has allowed humans to both survive and perish. This element of danger was intriguing and led to the use of fire in my work.

The burning series began as an experiment to create art without using conventional materials. Although it is human to fear fire, this harnessing of it has led me to paint literally with a charcoal, black palette. Using a variety of combustible materials I am able to create different tones and marks on my wooden supports. These spontaneous reactions are created by the interactions of wood, natural materials (i. e. cloth, rope, sand), metal and fire.

My landscapes have evolved under this influence and are leading me in a new and exciting direction. The marks caused by the flames have simplified and loosened my painting style and have enabled me to deal with surprises I never would have imagined. Through fire and oil glazes I capture the mood, light quality and vitality of the landscape.

 

Burn XV Windswept Pine
Sebasco Estates, Maine
fire and oil on wood
$600

Burn After the Harvest
Maine
fire and oil on wood
$600