Next Stop

On the way back from Shanghai, I spent a few days in India as I do about every six months or so. Part nostalgia, part dread, and the rest of it anticipation, the trip is never dull. India is especially tough on travelers. Vestiges of old-fashioned bureaucracy and a plethora of ad hoc methods for running a massive country leave even the locals befuddled. Only those who get past this toughness get to savor the grace and charm of an ancient culture striving to integrate the most modern of influences.


I am always struck afresh by, and this is the inspiration for this posting, the progressive degradation of the environment that keeps moving apace and is more noticeable to me on each visit. Ruined Earth was done using the same technique as in several previous pieces (which I am calling the Meditation Series). Layers of thick and thin paint led to the final effect which aims to represent a tarnished sheen through which rays of brightness break through. Even these appear to be but dying embers waiting to be finally extinguished.


Ruined Earth, Acrylic on canvas, 16"x20", $150