TRAGEDY
The 2010 (BP) Gulf Oil Spill has damaged the local economy of the gulf coast residents but its long-term environmental impact is beyond grasp. We hope that the spill will be contained soon so that measures can be taken to prevent further damage.
I have tried to capture the oil spill (but not the effects) in a couple of small pieces (see Recent Works).
Earth, Sky, and Fire
Oil on Canvas, 24" x 24" (NA)
I was driven to paint this by the horrors of September 11, 2001 and the images of the war in Iraq and Afghanistan. The twin towers are at the center of the canvas. On the right is a candy-colored building with an archway representing a sanctuary from the tragedies of war while the rugged stairway symbolizes the arduous struggle for peace.
The Fallen
Oil on Canvas, 18" x 24"
The mounting war casualties in Iraq and Afghanistan and the senseless deaths happening around the country are central to this piece. The multi-colored squares represent the tombs of those who died. The mass of yellow below the tombs depict flowers and candles. At the very bottom are the people who love, honor and remember "The Fallen".
Wildfire
Oil on Canvas, 21" x 31"
The wildfires, mainly of California, bring about devastation of nature and property, resulting in not only incalculable damage and loss but human suffering. I felt guilty about enjoying the play of colors while painting such scene of destruction.