The Root is Exposed

"The Root Is Exposed" 2011

Wood root, branches, pine needles, plaster, & acrylic on drywall

Detail of "The Root Is Exposed" 2011

Soon after relocating to Los Angeles, I began working part-time at my absolute favorite jewelry designer, Alexis Bittar. I couldn't be happier to be a part of and contribute to a truly brilliant artist of our time. Everyday I am exposed to his inspiring creations. His team, me included, truly love to be involved in his sphere of talent, integrity, and drive. I knew it would be but a short time before his energy would begin to have some influence on my own expression. All be it, his is nothing short of brilliance, that I hope someday to find in my own creations. As part of his Spring/Summer Collection, he created a series of necklaces, cuffs, and rings that layer mother of pearl, faux fern, rose beryl, and rosegold. I have admired and shared my admiration of these pieces with just about anyone willing to get an earful. I began to think of ways to incorporate the natural elements of life with the acrylic synthetic of our man made world in my own way.

So with the help and resources from my one of my dearest friends, Jen Smith, I grabbed an old root and some branches that had been laying around the backyard from one of our gardening projects. From her recent bathroom renovation, I salvaged some bits of plastered wall. I began to pour my clear medium and paint mixed with pink and pearl acrylic pigment directly on the drywall that had been primed with joint compound and adding traces of pine needles. Once dry, I began to peel up the paint in sections and playing with the shapes and reversing top coat and bottom. The shape of the root was sawed down and the branches were glued into place.

Upon completion, Jen and I sat and talked during today's raining afternoon about what could be said about this piece. What does it mean, if anything? Many of my friends know the recent challenges, sacrifices, and reflection I have been experiencing. In this re-location, I have been stripped down to the bare root of who I am; reflecting on my past victories and mistakes. You can look at this as a gnarled mess of root but the simple truth of it all is you have to trim a rose bush before it will bloom again. It's no mistake this is my first complete piece since leaving the familiar for this journey. I hope you enjoy!