“An Angel Takes Wing” Encaustic Art
“An Angel Takes Wing” Exhibited in 2024
The art process to make “An Angel Takes Wing.”
I never know where the art process will take me, and that was certainly true with “An Angel Takes Wing”. After starting the encaustic wax layer for this piece, I carved and applied a combination of inks. My goal was to give the wings an ethereal feel to contrast the figure. At first, I wanted it to represent Saint Bernard of Montjoux, the patron saint of hikers, backpackers, and skiers. It sounds random, but it makes sense because Greg and I both love climbing, hiking, and backpacking. Greg and his friend, Judd, like to ice climb, and I’d appreciate Saint Bernard’s protection for them, or help from any saint willing to lend a hand.
Changing the meaning of the artwork
Over time, this artwork has taken on a much more personal meaning for my family. The painting reminds us of my late brother, Brett. It’s easy to see the image of the male angel, but there’s something more. At first, we notice that the angel’s stance and his lean are similar to Brett's. The smallest physical gestures can change the meaning of a piece. It has become something special for our family, full of unspoken understanding. I named it “An Angel Takes Wing” because the figure seems to lean over, watching those he loves, and ready to take wing when needed. Maybe there’s more we see than the figure’s stance. Brett always put others before himself. In the painting, we see Brett, a devoted protector of those he loves.
More connected reflections:
