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The Misguided Coyote
This assemblage combines two observations: (1) that foxes, wolves and coyotes are increasingly seen in urban neighborhoods because of the destruction of their habitat and (2) that light pollution — particularly noticeable in cities — obscures the night sky. In this scene, a coyote howls at a streetlamp, mistaking it for the moon. A Boston terrier, a bulldog and a beagle look on confused. The “moon” is here represented by a segment of a necklace I designed using two semiprecious stones (agate and golden rutilated quartz), freshwater pearls and Murano glass beads.
When we develop wild areas which were previously home to foxes, wolves, and coyotes, those animals frequently make their way into our communities. The inspiration for this piece came from noticing (1) that foxes were now living in our urban neighborhood and (2) how badly light pollution in cities can hide the stars in the night sky.
Additional materials used include realistic models of the dogs and the coyote, dollhouse miniatures, plastic, acrylic, acrylic paint, wood, and velvet.
Custom framed with museum glass in a sophisticated deep wooden frame in collaboration with Chevy Chase Art Gallery, Washington, DC.
Frame color: Black
Size (in inches): 14 x 31.5 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.






