Inspired by visits to Crystal Cove, a State Park in the Laguna area of SoCal.
These paintings were based on visits to Crystal Cove, a State Park in the Laguna area of SoCal. Noted for its tide pools, plenty of flora and fauna can easily be observed here. Beginning with a long-standing interest in moire patterning, the paintings were designed to appear gently convex, shaped as softened square forms to further promote a pillowy sculptural quality.
Henry the Hexapus refers to an unusual six-limbed octopus found by a British marine scientist, the optical effect of the painted surface causes the eye to see circular patterns, like a bubbling frothy tide or the suckers of an octopus tentacle. This is accomplished by careful orchestration of grid-like layers of tiny painted squares.
Elegantissima yields a strangely undulating textural appearance and references a particular sea anemone that can be found swaying the currants of the tide pools. While the paintings have vibrant, active appearances, the overall qualities are intended to encourage a meditative, contemplative reading.
