onward

This past month I’ve been captured by the Knickerbocker series. I call them that because I use pages from an old book The Knickerbocker History of New York. The pages are fragile, a gorgeous color, and remind me of my days in New York. A librarian commented on Instagram that some books survive in fragments which helped to ease my twinges about tearing up a book.

I paint some of the pages with gesso; it makes a rougher, earthier texture than acrylic. Others are dyed with India ink, and some are splattered with encaustic. I use machine stitch to hold them together, often add touches of hand stitch, burn the edges, and often apply a coat of matte varnish for strength and endurance.

I am beguiled by them. Usually, I’d be bored with a series by now and ready to move on. I’m not.

Yesterday I made two pieces that took my breath away (the one above and the one below). They are a little bigger than my normal pieces (5 to 6” x 5.5 to 6”). They feel strong and timeless. I’m a little shocked that I made them.

They seemed to open a chasm in me and I felt my art changing. I’m changing.

I learned today that my dearest friend of almost 45 years is in the final stages of hospice. We intuitively understood each other. Although our outer lives were very different, we were twins in many ways. I miss her already.

Three days ago, my step great grandson was born. He’s beautiful and was given the wonderful name “Chance”. I’m already in love.

Birth and death are so connected. Maybe it’s these two events that are shifting me toward this new direction. These pieces seem to have the power of both endings and beginnings in them.

I think about my beloved tulips and consider switching to tulip colors and feathery textures. I doubt that I will. This new direction touches my heart and holds me.

Posting pieces for sale on my website is drudgery. I’m not inclined to do it. But here are a few of the small Knickerbocker pieces that I am willing to sell. If you would like one, please send me an email at info@robertawagner.com with the piece you would like. They are US$75 which includes both US and international shipping and WA sales tax. I’ll send you a square invoice that can be paid with a credit card or you can use Zelle.

As always, I’m so grateful for your support.

Oh - and if you happen to have an old copy of the Knickerbocker book and are willing to part with it, please send it to me. I’ll send you some pieces made from the book.

Warmly,