Conscious Breather, Series 22 #50 Painting

Unlike most animals, whales are conscious breathers. Series 22 #50 Conscious Breather 18 x 24 in 2017 Ink, Acrylic All works in Series 22 incorporate a mix of high quality traditional media, including sumi ink, pigment-based india inks, acrylic and watercolor paints, and graphite on 300 gsm Rives BFK printmaking paper that is 100% cotton and acid-free. Each work is signed on the front with my initials, and on the back with my initials, last name, date completed, and the series number. This work ships well-protected with a system of three sturdy tubes. The work is placed between two sheets of acid-free glassine, rolled around an inner core, then wrapped with waterproof plastic and bubble wrap, and placed inside a 4" tube, which is then placed inside a 6" shipping tube. ------- My works represent a constant outpouring of singular impressions: clearly isolated images that capture flashes of emotion, changes in perception, or moments of recognition. I give fleeting thoughts as much consideration as monumental ideas: nothing is more important than anything else and every small thing has its place. My process is modeled after the methods of improvisational theater. I make a first mark, then ask myself, “if this is true, what else is true?” I repeat this process with the addition of each new element, using personal experience to shape the final image. Each image represents an isolated narrative, yet all the images together tell a larger story. My accountability for the truth and permanence of this story is an important part of my identity as an artist. This is why I make all my works in sequential series, and never destroy or hide any of them.