Perhaps it’s because of a show at another church this weekend, this e-gallery is featuring the cross as an artistic motif. It’s an enduring symbol, a thing of simple beauty really, though with a gruesome history. The Romans found the beam and crossbar efficient enough for their methods and the symbol became one of warning. Since then it’s become more a symbol of mercy. And by current trends, even oddly hip. But it’s not any of that which brings out the theme this moment, but rather a couple of artists who have encountered the cross personally, exploring a few approaches to this classic emblem.
Portals of Silver, acrylic on canvas, 40×60 (Click on picture for info)
The cross in this first example is a subtle inclusion, more of a design element among several. This large piece was featured in an e-gallery a year ago (click “PDF Archives” at right, No. 29, Aug., 2007, page 3.) Perhaps the painting’s mix of symbols from the wider world speaks of an internationality . . . these are things for the viewer to interpret. For me it was more about aesthetic design. By the way, that silver is metallic paint, giving it another dimension, particularly as the light changes during the day.
(The painting is still available.)
Behind the Skies 1 and 2, acrylic on canvas, both 24×24
We leave the subtle to the more specific in the examples above. That is, unless the titles keep things “only suggested.” In both cases, and others to follow in this series, they could almost be from photos of distant constellations taken by the Hubble space telescope. The inference is not unintended. The cross is not just an earthly symbol.
Both of these paintings have been purchased. For interest, see enlargements here: Behind the Skies 1 and Behind the Skies 2. (When there, notice the “larger view” option.)
Behind the Skies 3, acrylic on canvas, 16×16 (Click on picture for info)
Here’s a recent addition to the series . . . a series that could go on infinitely, which is another aspect of its deeper meaning. When you think of it, it’s a perfect symbol, a basic nexus between whatever needs to be intersected, like heaven and earth, God and man, right and wrong. Its four extensions cover the compass and conceivably go forever in divergent directions, yet they meet. And that meeting makes all the difference, is the meaning, is the message. In painting these I use any color, but red is never left out.
(This painting is available, as are all those to follow.)
An unlikely painter’s apprentice (click for larger view)
I painted Behind the Skies 3 last month, in June. With the warmth of an evening, the door was open and suddenly I had a little help. A June bug flew in and landed itself right on my canvas, soupy with wet paint. Rather than whisk it away or try to carefully lift it off, I let it crawl around a bit to see what designs it would contribute. In the end, you can’t see what parts he (she?) made and what parts I made, but I couldn’t resist taking a photo of the process. I don’t think it was necessarily because I was painting a cross, but I will call it help from above . . . even if that “above” was not behind the skies. (Or was it?)
Cross Section 1, acrylic on paper, 4×4, in 15 inch frame
Besides making these crosses on canvas, recently I’ve explored smaller versions on paper. It’s just because there’s so much that can be done with it, and because they could serve many with bits of beauty . . . and for those who relate, an identification with a larger meaning. Either way, a cross conveys a simple elegance, regardless of its symbol. Here is a four-inch square original on paper, set off in a mat and frame system I bought off the shelf.
Cross Section 2, acrylic on paper, 4×4
The above and the three below are more variations on the same theme, not yet framed or matted though shown here in a field of black. By the way, these pieces are not yet on my website. Anyone interested can contact me directly. The price of these small paintings before matting and framing is $90 (a good price for an original piece of art, if I do say). If you’re interested, send me an e-mail here.
(Above) Cross Section 3, acrylic on paper, 4×4
(Above) Cross Section 4, acrylic on paper, 4×4
Finding Intimacy, monotype, 11×9 (available)
While on the subject, here are a couple more pieces on the same theme, created with ink on paper by Anne and her press. Again, these show degrees of obvious statement in one and subtlety in the other. The hidden calligraphy is design motif only (though who knows?) The Asian aspect is mainly for beauty, but once again, internationalizes. After all, we’re one, under the skies.
In Memorium, monotype, 17×15.5 (sold)
CURRENT SHOWS
Canvas
THIS WEEKEND ONLY
Newport Mesa Church
2599 Newport Blvd.
Coast Mesa, California
Saturday, July 26, 3:00-10:00 pm
Sunday, July 27, noon-2:00 pm
Check here for their press release.
Festival of the Arts
650 Laguna Canyon Road
Laguna Beach, California
July 6 thru August 30, 2008
10:00 a.m. – 11:30 p.m
(Anne is normally on site Fridays through Mondays, except July 26)
4:16 pm
Outside of your painting of the “Table,” this is your most significant painting. These two paointings carry the message the world needs to hear ………. you allow them to hear the gospel via their visual sense. allan
4:36 pm
You have seen my web site so know I’m no stranger to the cross. Being of different background, I have difficulty in seeing the cross as a symbolic design by itself. The cross is more than a symbol or design, it is real. When it becomes only a pretty picture it loses its real meaning. It should, however, be kept in mind so that it never disappears from our memories. I did like your work. Don’t take me too literally.
I am now working on a new version of the “Blood of the Martyrs”, which is on my Web.
Tony Joyce
4:42 pm
I first saw your work at a worship conference at saddleback in 2003. I exchanged a few notes with ann on monoprints shortly there after. I have totally enjoyed each new piece as you’ve introduce them! Although my favorites are still your people of different nations, these crosses and the accompaning commentary are really beautiful. You both have such wonderful talent to use for God’s glory. I hope you continue to bless us, and Him, for many, many years! phylis
5:25 pm
I’m reminded of a hymn we often sing, ‘Lift High the Cross’. Keep it up!
6:03 pm
These ARE WONDERFUL !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
GOD bless you .
Thank You ,
GOD always be with you.
7:42 pm
Love these crosses, Hyatt. Beautiful!
“between whatever needs to be intersected” – what a great way to say it.
12:02 am
I am very intrigued by the crosses and the “personality” each painting projects. Some seem feminine almost soft, while others possess a savagery that is in keeping with the original intent of the instrument–which is what I think of when viewing them. Red is so powerful!
Your work fascinates and challenges.
I hope to see them “in person” at another exhibit.
All the best for this one,
Marion Haynes
4:01 am
Behind the skies 3.
Light and life were given by the shedding of blood.
7:33 am
Some of these crosses are very special indeed.
8:56 am
Hyatt, your artwork continues to touch my heart. God has gifted you with such talent to share — what a blessing for the rest of us.
By the way, I just received copies from PBS of our documentary Zora’s Roots, which currently is airing nationally. The beautiful picture you painted of Zora Neale Hurston is shown in the film. I’ll send you out a copy soon.
Keri Lowe, Eagle Productions
3:31 pm
Hyatt, I really, really, really like your “Portals of Silver.” Upon gazing at it I began to wonder, how could a means of capital punishment be painted with such beauty? How could it provoke such thought? And the answer that camE; because The One who died upon a cross for the sins of men is Glorious, and He lives. Too, in all your crosses they are the focal point, and the cross is the focal point of all history whether men believe it or not. I should point out the one exception, the one with the june bug. Did he make it out alive?
Anne, the one I really, really, really, liked is your “In Memorium.” Such softness, such richness, that dispells feelings of peac. Thank you both for sharing your work with us.
Gail Howatt
3:42 pm
hyatt
my daughter, siena, was born april 06, 1989.
unfortunately she passed away three days before her first birthday….
when we buried her on her first birthday, we sent several, 12 to be exact, helium balloons, up to heaven.
one balloon for each month that she lived….
upon receiving the photos back from the process, we noticed that when the balloons were in the their highest point in the sky, they formed the crucifix!
this let me know that my darling angel was safely home
and that the only way to get there is through the blood of jesus christ!
yes, crosses are very special to me!
thank you for sharing your’s with us!
10:55 am
Hyatt,
I love these. You just get better and better, more and more profound, in your painting. There is such a freedom in your strokes, such life… the texture is wonderful and mysterious… it pulls me right in as I absorb it. Thank you for sharing your heart and talent.
9:04 pm
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[…] Terzian, Alexandra M … seat work decorative arts ethnic art expatriate artists folk art folk …Hyatt Moore – PainterHyatt Moore, oil painter. Honoring people of many nations though art. As each individual is created […]