Detours

The words in this piece read: "I am not a cow in a pasture. All of my limitations are self-imposed."

(The image continues around the staple-free sides of the canvas. This is a digital photo, the scans above are more accurate.)

Detours is a fascinating, rich, vibrant painting. It has layers of color and texture that look both weathered and modern. And it feels stronger, more assertive, than is typical for my work. Almost masculine. It feels calming, too, though. I am not sure if I am making sense now. For some reason, this one is particularly challenging to write about. It is an unusual piece for me in many ways, but a very successful piece. Very powerful. My partner and I agree that it feels right somehow. (And he and I do not often agree about art.)

This glowing image of an empty field with a wire fence is about how I too often convince myself that I must do this or I have to do that or I cannot possibly do this. It is about how I imagine limitations and convince myself that they are "reality" when in fact they are fantasy. They are just distractions. Detours. The words in this unique painting read, "I am not a cow in a pasture. All of my limitations are self-imposed." I am hopeful this piece will bring a bit of inspiration and faith to the home of some fellow rebel out there. I hope it will act as a reminder that you, too, are free.

Detours is the result of many different processes and applications. Layers were painted on and rubbed off and blotted and scraped. I did all sorts of things to create interesting textures and a feeling of timeless depth. There are transparent washes and opaque highlights and broad strokes and fine details.