TREE ABSTRACTS
AUTUMN 2022/2023
A series of painting over the last two years has revolved around the theme of tree trunks. My fascination here is the magical manner in which trees reach from earth to heaven, a bridge between the two elements of earth and air. In this they are a symbol of transcendence, an ancient symbol that in past cultures has for example transfigured itself in the pillars of Egyptian temples and Gothic churches.
I am absorbed, too, by the manner in which trees like all plant life, live on light, through photosynthesis. They are a majestic form of light incarnate. My paintings attempt to incarnate this other aspect of the tree, too. The series of paintings become increasingly abstract while retaining the connection to the tree as both a symbol of transmutation and transcendence.
