Reflection sanded gesso on canvas over panel approx. 33x41
This sort of work is not the easiest to view. It requires time and patience. It's a conceptual piece that I finished last year, and it addresses the tension one feels when starting something new. I feel I've had a lot of experience with new starts. Unlimited freedom can be a little overwhelming, but it can also be uplifting, terrifying, intimidating, and refreshing. These mixed feelings can bring about a hesitant pause in the face of endless possibilities. In that pause, important (and not-so-important) decisions are made. I chose to refine this gessoed surface to mirror finish in order to heighten the tension of what comes next: Mark number one, the first swipe of the brush, that first step on a new trail.
As for the reflection, it's one that denies the self. Because of how it's made, one cannot see one's own reflection in it, only that of their surroundings. Personally, I find that sometimes I can be my biggest hurdle to get over. If only I could get out of my own way. If only I wasn't so aware of myself, my fears and my past and more aware of what's around me, I'd be able to move on to the next thing. So with this in mind, I tried to catch the silent moment when misgivings are denied and new challenges are about to begin with clarity, courage, and openness.
for M and B