When I first learned to fish, the
black drum was a mystery to me. I heard about it-
I knew it existed- but it was lurking out there in the
parts unknown. Somewhere deep, I was sure.
Just the name “Black Drum” made it sound like a
mysterious fish with a long history.
I worked in warm colors for the drum to try and
emphasize the size and stature of this fish. It
marked the first time in my work where I used a
color palette intended to add interpretative
elements to the illustration of the subject. It was
also the moment when I began emphasizing the
importance of color in the craft of batik making.
While species identification remains a critically
important element of my work, this piece was a
catalyst in focusing on the intersection of art and
craft in my work.
Crane at Sunset
20"x32"
Choosing a finishing style:
Each piece is in a finished state as it is represented in the images, however some collectors prefer a glazed or slightly glossy appeareance which gives the image a bit more of a flat, painterly feel. Others prefer to highlight the natural fibers of the art form. There is no difference in price and no difference in longevity, the glazing is done free of charge if selected.
Without Glazing - This is the option prefered by collectors who appreciate the qualities of my work as a fiber art form. The emphasis is on the artwork's physical qualities and the unique texture you get from the batik process. The piece is stretched over a piece of sturdy hardboard much like a canvas on board painting but is not sealed in order to emphasize the fibers.
Mounted and Glazed - The piece is permanently mounted on a sealed hardboard using clear acrylic polymer, then glazed with a semi glossy finish. This finishing is prefered by collectors who appreciate the work for the subject and the imagery, and emphasizes the illustrative properties of the piece.