My piece “Above Ash” is one of the largest and most challenging works I have created to date. Measuring 60 inches in diameter on a custom cradled panel, the piece explores cityscapes as its central theme. The composition is divided into thirds and further abstracted through layered design elements. I chose to break the plane of the surface by physically sawing into the wood in three locations, filling each space with three-dimensional components and colored acrylic plexiglass. As I painted, the work evolved and began to guide my process. I realized that one of the large buildings I had rendered was not only an abstract shape, but also a current topic of discussion among San Diego city officials and residents. In response, I added a custom 3D figure referencing the controversial site, creating a visual time stamp that reflects the challenges San Diego faces regarding housing and development. My use of bold, vibrant colors , which is a hallmark of my style, captures the city’s distinctive, nearly year-round sunshine.
I am deeply honored to have this piece selected by Chantal Paul (Galleries and Exhibition Coordinator, School of Art & Design, San Diego State University), Patric Stillman (Founder, The Studio Door Gallery), and Katie Dolgov (OMA Director of Exhibitions and Collections).