Black Iris
acrylic, crayon, graphite on cradleboard
24 x 24
Artist Statement
In Spring, as Iris make their stately appearance, I observe them and have developed an obsession with their various colors and forms over the years. They’ve been in my drawings and paintings many times. The black Iris is unique with its purple undertones; strong and regal. Tubers add to mysterious earthy systems we know are there and sometimes see, as weather and water move soil around. Toward the conclusion of this painting, the tulips showed up — floating like ethereal beings — as though they are visiting a friend.
We (Christina and Mr. Garcia, the dog) live and work at a home studio in Boise, Idaho. Painting and drawing have been our lives for many years. Sometimes, if I sit too long with coffee, or watch a documentary, etc., Mr. Garcia will go stand in the doorway of the ART room. He’s almost always right, and only 10 pounds. I try to tune into to my paintings by asking them what they want. Carrying that out is the practice I am devoted to — becoming a better listener.
