Paintings

The Volcano Fault Project explores the potential of a painting medium that I developed from fine Italian varnishing techniques. This medium builds on mythical finishes such as Stradivari’s varnish and Chinese lacquer, both of which I have studied alongside renowned masters and through archival research. What I call here my medium is a liquid akin to lacquer, consisting of natural resins and oils binding dry pigments; once layered on the panel, it becomes a solid in which I carve my images. I apply ten to thirty coats of this medium directly on wood or over gesso, sanding each coat. I cook gesso from chalk, layer and shape it with a knife to suggest stone, walls or other grounds. Altogether, the lacquer film is less than a millimeter thick, but its many layers compose an optical illusion of unfamiliar dimensionality as images randomly appear and assemble under different lights. The shifting forms and intense red color ultimately evoke burning lava and an abyss. Yet, the finish is sensual, inviting the touch.

All paintings are 48″x48″, created with violin varnish and pigments on wood.