For Rothko, 2008

This long vertical drawing ( 84 ' x 42" ) has extremely fine line work that can only be seen in the detail photograph. This drawing took me close to two months to complete. I use a labor- intensive paper sizing technique from the 1300’s that was used for Tugras and other calligraphic texts during the Ottoman Empire. The process includes egg white, alum and burnishing with a small agate stone resulting in a beautiful sheen whereby the ink sits on top of the paper creating a bit of dimension. I use a fine steel nib for the line work. I begin with a ladder and work my way down. I hold my breath as I draw each line and release the breath in order to replenish my nib with ink. My mind rests in a meditative space throughout my process and gains insight into an unconscious world where colors and geometric forms emerge. My drawings and paintings aim to represent and communicate the reverberations and energies that are released during these moments of profound solace and quietude. I am interested in creating works that cross cultural boundaries. My research includes art works from all cultures and time periods that summon the human spirit. It is from these points of confluence that my work takes shape.