22 in x 22 in 10/2026
My daughter suggested that I paint a spiderweb, and it being October, I chose to make it with black and oranges with Halloween in mind. I spent some time looking at spider webs, and settled on it being “organically symmetrical”. The radiating lines, laid down by dividing each axis into equal proportions and then connecting opposing edges to each other on those divisions, establish a clear geometric structure. In contrast, curved divisions, varied proportions, and textured color – all done by hand - keep the piece from feeling mechanical or “store-bought”. My goal was to have a familiar enough piece to invite recognition, but make it abstract enough to sustain looking. The dark hub at the center, acts as a visual anchor to allow the viewer’s eye to move inward along the spokes, but then the bands of color expanding radially give the painting energy. Small variations introduce a handmade rhythm, preventing the radial symmetry from becoming static. Cropping the pattern at every edge suggests that the structure continues beyond the canvas. The visible surface texture adds more interest with a finished look reminiscent of stained glass or mosaic. The painting balances exuberance with a faint sense of unease. The colors are welcoming, but the web-like structure and dark center introduce the possibility of entanglement or absorption. That ambiguity is compelling: is this an opening, a trap, a burst of light, or a system holding everything together? I guess a spiderweb can be all of these things.
