'Ember'

About Ember:

The elements of nature are our world’s life giving necessities. These vital sources are held within the 4 Natural Elements: Earth, Air, Water, and Fire. In our natural world, fire is the primary catalyst for transformation. Physically, fire has the power to permanently change the chemical and biological structure of matter. Although destructive, fire is an integral part of the regeneration of our landscape as it holds the key to unlocking matter’s energy.

Our sun, a great fiery orb is the center of our solar system and energy source for all of life. The wielding and domestication of light and fire has helped to build civilization and evolve human beings. On a basic level, the sharing of a fire is similar to sharing a meal. It provides more than just the fulfillment of our inherent needs (ie food and warmth). It provides comfort, companionship and beckons us to connection and reflection with ourselves, others and nature.

As created beings in a created world, the forces of nature are imprinted in humans on a micro level. The same patterns carried out within nature are carried out within us. These patterns unite the physical and spiritual dimensions within us. We share in the necessity of fire not only for physical survival, but for the transformation of our inner life.  As a spiritual symbol, the fires of life have the power to refine our heart, mind and soul. Although a painful and uncomfortable process, adversity can transfigure our life, bringing us to higher planes of emotional and spiritual awareness. Like a wildfire that awakens the dormant germination of a seed, hardship unlocks who we truly are; making us more of ourselves, burning away excess and refining our spirit.

With this new body of work, I explore fire in many forms: The duality of the destructive and restorative power of a wildfire; The intimate gathering around a bonfire that invites introspection and connection;  The intense refining process of gold;  Beauty and creation being born of fire as in diamonds and lava flow. Through this series, fire has become my personal emblem of transcendence.