Please allow an additional 2-3 weeks for production time
 
Printed on Hahnemühle Hemp fine art matte paper (290 gsm)
Image Size: 24" x 30" Paper Size: 27" x 33"
Edition of 250
 
My family contracted Lyme Disease while living in Russia. Unfortunately, it was not diagnosed early enough and became chronic, but thanks to an army of supporters we were able to get treatment in Florida. During three months of IV infusions stronger than chemotherapy, after long days at the clinic I would putter away on a painting in our friends' first-floor waterfront condo. This provided a therapy of its own through a very challenging time, an escape to another world.
 
While working on a large painting like this one, the long process allows me ample time to conceptually formulate my thoughts on the piece. Continuing what I had entitled my Streams in the Wasteland series, this painting fit the theme of wild animals in abandoned spaces. Gothic architecture fascinates me for its intentional diversity, which also reflects the variety and lack of rigidity in the natural world. The history of Gothic reveals a gradual discovery of the beauty found in natural forms, which could be transferred into stone edifices [i]. I imagined the concept for this painting over a year earlier, then later found architectural reference from the ruins of a 12th century cathedral in London, England. It was transformed into a peaceful garden intertwined with ivy, red roses, and fallen petals (historically symbolic of the Passion of Christ in European art). This would provide an intriguing exterior for an ocean scene emanating through glass windows.
 
I became interested in Humpback Whales from watching the BBC series Ocean Giants, which recorded epic sights and sounds of the largest mammals to ever live on the planet. The behaviour of whales, specifically their vocalization, remains somewhat of a mystery to scientists. Many believe their 'songs' may be more than mating calls, for the non-utilitarian act of expressing emotions, passed down through the generations like cherished anthems [ii].
 
In contemplating this I looked back to the gothic cathedral, a space for praise where parishioners sang hymns to their Creator. So also metaphorically the haunting chants from the giants of the deep bring honour to their Maker. This painting serves as a reminder for me to bring praise and honour to my Creator even in the midst of my chronic illness.
 
[i] According to 19th century art critic, John Ruskin, On Art and Life. 48.
[ii] Overheard at National Geographic. Podcast, "Humpback Hit Factory."