One year ago I traveled to a small town on the coast of Denmark. Set up in a minmal summer house by the sea I began my body of work titled “ Essence of Place”. Quiet days in the land of light opened up an expanded relationship to place and time. After six weeks I returned home to explore familiar trails through the burnt landscapes near Tahoe where the Caldor fire turned lush forests into spires of charcoal.
Exploring nature and capturing the essence of places is a journey of discovery that transcends mere observation. It is about immersing oneself in the natural world, feeling the rhythms of the environment, and understanding the unique characteristics that define each location. Through this exploration, I gain a deeper appreciation for the beauty and diversity of our planet, fostering a connection that inspires both awe and responsibility. Capturing these moments, through the use of both water soluble graphite and paint made from burnt bark allows me to share the profound experiences and stories of these places, preserving their essence and encouraging others to embark on their own journeys of exploration and connection with nature.
Walking the trails of the burnt forest, collecting charred bark, and transforming it into paint has been a poignant act of renewal and creativity. By using the very remnants of the forest's destruction to create art, I not only honor the resilience and rebirth of nature but also capture the profound beauty and stark reality of its cycles. Each painting, rendered from the ashes of the forest, tells a story of survival, transformation, and hope. This artistic process becomes a meditative journey, where I connect deeply with the land, turning loss into a celebration of life and the enduring spirit of the natural world.
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