Crucible:
noun
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a ceramic or metal container in which metals or other substances may be melted or subjected to very high temperatures.
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a place or occasion of severe test or trial.“the crucible of combat”
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a place or situation in which different elements interact to produce something new.
“the crucible of the new Romantic movement”
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Each experience in our lives produces its own alchemy. This painting arose out of a contour drawing of my two dogs, Red & Lola. I’ve integrated them into the painting to the point that they disappear, and the painting has become something else entirely. The title has been in my head for months, relating to an experience that was intense and frustrating.
I feel like the close color range of reds, violets and orange speak to the theme of a crucible of heat. I like the angular pivot points near the center, and the light blue line work that morphs into shape. It has been a busy summer, and this painting reminds me a bit of the intense heat and activity. I’m looking forward to the cooler weather and more regular schedule of fall!
View it in person when it’s on display at the Portland Open Studios Preview show: September 17th at Basic Space Gallery, 625 NW Everett St #111, Portland, Oregon. 503-477-6452
Great post. By sharing your process of how this painting started with a contour drawing of Red and Lola, you inspire other artists to face the unknown.
Brava!
Thank you Linda!
I agree with Linda, great ideas for a painting. Plus, it’s loaded with nuances of color.
Many thanks, Margaret!
I would love to see photos of the progression from the contour drawing to the finished painting. This is fascinating to me!
Thanks Jansi! I only have a couple of photos… I’ll post them on facebook 🙂