In my quest toward examining the mysteries spanning life and death, I have studied different cultures that use ritual to travel between the worlds. While making this painting, I continued to explore Aborigine ritualistic face painting. While searching for photos of Aborigines I found one in which I could feel the intensity of what was behind his eyes. I used cold wax and impasto to increase the texture in this painting. I scratched the surface to feel the raw nature of his being.
I continue to respond to primitive man’s connection to the mysteries of the world. Aborigines and other indigenous peoples have managed to maintain a connection to the mysteries of the universe. I want to learn to travel these passageways. I want to infuse my being with the mystical qualities that travel through the darkness and reveal themselves through ritual and shadow. I want to connect with all that is.
