Adagio refers to a musical piece that is performed in slow tempo. Its origin is especially telling. It comes from the Italian, “ad agio,” meaning “at ease.” In my mind, it suits this collection of solo paintings that invite one to pause and enter a captured place and time. The outside world is set aside for a while, and time slows as the eye navigates the image. The viewer comes to a resting place.

BAGATELLES
A bagatelle is a short, lighthearted instrumental composition, usually intended for the piano. It evokes a playful character. It is in this spirit that my smaller pieces come to life. A bagatelle can serve as accompaniment for a visual presentation or convivial event. In this sense, the small works in this collection serve as accompaniment in the living spaces of one’s home. They add a note, a colorful tone, as if nature were humming a soothing tune into the fabric of the day.





ENSEMBLE
The term “ensemble” comes from the Latin, Insimul, meaning “at the same time.” In musical terms, it refers to a group of musicians who perform together. Each has a unique part to play, yet they resonate harmony; they complete each other. I frequently use a format of multiple canvases to extend the image. The breaks between the canvases are like the musical reference indicating rests between measures.

LIVING STONE
The phrase “living stone” has deep significance for me. Stone, a seemingly inert and humble material, holds a visual energy. My spirit is reminded of the Biblical reference of the “living stone”. I use a glazing technique to give a translucent surface. When looking deep into the surface, the viewer may see layering of embedded time. The musical term “étude” seems fitting in this instance. An étude is a short musical composition, usually for one instrument, designed to demonstrate and expand skill and technique. The instrument, in this case, is the brush; stone walls are the muse.








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