Saltus Illuminati, (the Forest Illuminated) is a synthesis
of traditional landscape painting, abstract expressionism,
sculpture and environmental art. Taking painting off the
wall into a three dimensional space, this work becomes an
environment for the viewer to experience as an aesthetic
exploration, as a connection to their own memories of and
feelings for our forest environments, as an informative
reference to the threat to our forests from the Mountain
Pine Beetle and as a reminder for us all to be more cognizant
of our interrelationship with our forest environments. It
is a narrative of the stages of the pine tree's journey
as it experiences healthy strength, pitch tubes, egg chambers,
fungus rings, starving death, fire and charred remains.
It is a memory of the forest itself expressed through the
mark making of the vegetation. It is a metaphor for loss
but also for enduring energy and presence.
