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Nature Tamed and Untamed
As humans increasingly encroach on natural habitats, creatures existing in those habitats are squeezed out. In this work, untamed nature is represented by the wolf among the barren trees. On either side, the wolf is hemmed in by natural elements that have been modified by humans. The succulents to the right are chosen as decor because they fit atop stands inside a home. The oyster shell to the left has been positioned to resemble a wolf's den. At first glance the dark purple inside the shell appears to be the opening. But to indicate that the construction of houses in the area now prevents the wolf from entering the den, the entrance has been blocked by the rest of the oyster shell and the den's roof adorned with a necklace segment designed from freshwater pearls, shells and Murano glass.
Additional materials include a realistic model of a wolf, an oyster shell found on a beach, wire, acrylic paint, dollhouse miniatures, fabric, and paper.
Custom framed with museum glass in a sophisticated deep wooden frame in collaboration with Chevy Chase Art Gallery, Washington, DC.
Frame color: Silver
Size (in inches): 7.75 x 14" x 4
Framing
Though many designs appear simple, each work in fact takes several months to create. The final version is rarely the one initially envisioned; the laws of gravity force numerous adjustments. Execution involves a multitude of skills, some of which are acquired specifically to achieve the desired artistic result. In fact, it took several years of experimenting before I even hit upon a technique for creating assemblages.
The framing process is itself a component of the work, both conceptually and artistically. Though the frame is clean and modern in appearance, the framing process is not as simple as it seems. The determination whether to create a "room" (as with Born Free) or an intimate atmosphere (as with What Price Silence) is in fact part of the artistic process.
Works are custom framed to provide sufficient depth to accomplish my artistic goals as well as to support the weight of the work (often 40-60 pounds). The 4-inch deep decorative wooden frame curves outward to bring the work closer to the viewer.
As many designs are supported by the base as well as the backing, the framing process can be tricky. It took several months of experimentation to determine how to create a work that it was practical to frame. The glass protects the work from damaged caused by dust and dusting.
