Thin Space . 30x40 . 2006




(*shown in both normal light and blacklight)

This one was complicated. I spent a lot of time doing sketches (something new for me) beforehand. I knew it would be important to get the design down correctly before transferring anything to the canvas. This was the first time I was able to work on such a large piece - 30x40! I barely had room in my tiny apartment to paint it. In the Celtic tradition, "Thin Spaces" are places where the spiritual and the natural world intersect. I wanted to create something that was without particular direction, something very interpretive. I've gotten a lot of positive response on this one. I really wanted to make something elegant. I learned a lot from this piece, and it really opened my mind up to possibilities of future paintings. I love how it looks in blacklight. Actually, it looks best with both blacklight and regular light on at the same time. Kind of like it's glowing from within. I am very happy that I get to visit it often. It looks stunning hanging above my friend's fireplace. She says she often meditates to it, which is possibly the highest compliment I've ever received on anything in my life.

I can't get a good picture of it with the lights off, but in total darkness it looks like a field of stars. I never expected to create paintings that look good in utter blackness, but I'm completely satisfied with the result.

In truth, I think the concept of 'Thin Spaces' represents most, if not all, of my work.

1 comment:

worththerisk said...

This is the most fantastic painting I'm so priveleged to own! It has been hanging in my house now for 3 months and I can't stop looking at it. I love it in the morning, all of the purples and greens pop out of the picture, and the light aquamarine blue makes me happy.
The evening is an exceptional time to view the painting, most nights I prefer candle light w/ the UV light. Just the UV light is great for contemplation and meditation. I feel often like I'm looking through a window at something greater beyond the threashold, the space in between life and mystery.

This painting reveals, exposes, draws in, and beckons you explore its mysteries. It begs you to come sit a while in front of it!

I feel very rich for it! In so many ways. I feel the heart and pulse of the artist who created it. It moves me and inspires me!

I highly recommend you find a way to get yourself an original painting by Shayla.

:) B.