The sound of shells crunching together underfoot and the sound of a layer of ice breaking into softer snow remind me of each other. I was a child in Ottawa, Canada and now an adult in Florida, USA, so perhaps drawing the parallel is a way of making opposites feel equally familiar. Either way, those sounds inspired this piece.

Barnacles are painstakingly and individually created, then meticulously arranged and affixed into a collective movement that is representative of currents (wind or water). Kitchen tools (like cake scrapers, spatulas and dough cutters) are used in combination with brushwork to create the swirling, splashing background, and metal leaf trims a bottom strip.

The way this composition came to me makes it of significant personal importance. Admittedly, the loss of my fingerprints to the hot glue required to adhere the barnacle sparks a note of physical pride as well. This piece was an investment of significant time, but was a therapeutic, centering and fulfilling experience.

To take a picture of this painting is to do dis-service as much of its wonder is lost in two-dimensional rendering. In person, I love watching a viewer’s hands float instinctively towards the painting as they investigate the barnacles from varying perspectives. As an artist I am proud to have built a bridge that connects my two homes in a way that also resonates with others.

Original artwork is on gallery-wrapped cotton canvas. Acrylic paint, additives, metal leaf, and recycled material are protected with a varnish coating. Artist’s signature is bottom right.

With all artwork, packaging receives the utmost care, involving layers of waterproofing, protective padding and reinforcement. The barnacle series will require additional attention and planning. Shipping options are provided based on client location, timing and preference. Typically, artwork ships free within mainland USA; artwork ships with discounted rates to Canada; artist will work with international buyers for best delivery system.

$9,600 | 48 x 30 inches

Please contact artist with any inquiries.