Light Cycles
5/24/2023

Light Cycles
My work typically consists of networks of single cells drifting amidst fluid abstract backgrounds, representing both microbiomes and macrocosmic worlds. I use nature and SEM (scanning electron microscope) images as inspiration to explore concepts of blood cells, bacteria, fungi, and unicellular structures. I attempt to show that everything develops on a cellular level, from a single cell, like the seed of an idea. Circles, ovals, and toroidal forms represent the basic structures within my works. Influences of color and light help develop the layers within my work. The use of repetition and pattern are pertinent in creating these abstract artworks in an attempt to understand and interpret rhythmic orders on micro and macro levels. My desire is driven to understand how individual elements and pieces function independently, while also working together to create whole, systemic microbiomes: the sum of the parts equalling the whole. With the creation of each painting, I push the boundaries and depth in my work through layering and collage. To paint this way allows for continued growth and learning, unpredictable changes, and serendipitously wonderful exploration.

Currently I am expanding my vision of these ‘biomes’ into the medium of printmaking, using circular influences of the sun, moons and orbitals as a reference point. I give focus on the interplay of shapes and space to explore abstraction with very specific attention to the concept of printed color and light. Through the mechanical nature of pressing ink onto a paper with a press, light is developed and transmitted through the process that is unlike other art mediums. The layering in the prints is developed through multiple color images printed over each other, using both diffused and saturated ink to create the sense of depth. Additionally, the layering allows me to utilize the paper’s color, typically a shade of white, as the first component of light and color. I am embracing the ghost images, the accidents, the misprints and registration errors, utilizing each “mistake” as necessary source material.

While much of my work focuses on microcosmic tendencies, ‘Light Cycles’ attempts to bring the awareness into specific macrocosmic concepts. The series of ‘Quarter Moon Cycles’ redevelops my tendency to work in repetition, creating subtle shifts and differences within each phase, emulating cycles in and of the universe. The ‘Bokeh’ pieces, influenced by the photographic phenomenon, take a playful approach in exploring light and color through pure abstraction.

Piccolo
9/22/2022

Piccolo