These paintings play between abstraction and figuration as each individual panel is a monochrome while the organized collection evokes the illusion of sky. Aspects of chance, luck and play (the puzzle) are a major part of the production. Each monochrome panel is produced by pouring wax onto the unleveled surface of the support. The gradation across each panel is due to the varying thickness of the poured encaustic – white areas are where the primed ground can be seen through the thin surface of wax. Once a number of panels are produced the construction of the illusion of sky begins. Individual panels shift within the grid as I try to find places for the most recently poured pieces. The process includes removing and redoing the poured surfaces until all the segments lock into place and a resolved “Skyscape” is produced.

The grid formation is suggestive of windowpanes in industrial buildings that fragment the view while the space between each panel is essential for the illusion of a “skyscape” to function. My intention is for the “window” to function as a portal to another place/psychological space. Interior and exterior can be confounded; the perception of our surroundings can mirror an emotional state. Gazing out the window is often an escape in moments of dreaming, longing, contemplation or in search of inspiration. Conversely, the exterior environment, weather and the power of nature can affect our interior psychological state. Clouds can evoke a mood of gloom, while the dawn can evoke optimistic sentiments, and clear blue skies, cheerfulness.