Description
Hold Tight #2, 1990
Casein on Arches
Signed
22 x 30 in. (image)
32.5 x 40.5 (frame)
original, includes certificate of authenticity from ArtTrust
The painting “Hold Tight #2” depicts a weathered wooden fence with a beach and ocean appear to be painted on. The boards are worn, with rusted nails and peeling paint, evoking a sense of age and history. The scene behind the wooden frame appears distant, almost like a memory or a faded vision of the past, suggesting a longing or nostalgia associated with the beach. The sky is a mixture of soft blues and whites, while the sandy shore contrasts with the gentle waves on the left, hinting at the blending of land and sea.
In Zen Buddhism, the concept of barriers and their transcendence is often explored. The fence in this painting could represent the illusionary boundaries we perceive in life. These barriers are weathered, much like the mental barriers we impose on ourselves, indicating that with time and mindfulness, they can fade or be transcended. The distant beach symbolizes the unobstructed mind, where freedom and nature’s flow are accessible when one moves beyond perceived limitations.
The I Ching speaks of the interplay between obstacles and progress. Here, the fence could correspond to the hexagram “Obstruction” (Hexagram 39), where challenges present themselves, yet the path is still visible through the difficulties. This painting suggests that although obstructions may exist, there is always a way forward if one looks beyond the apparent limits. The weathered boards remind us that time erodes all things, and persistent effort can create pathways through obstacles.
Combining the descriptive overview, Zen reflection, and I Ching insights, “Boardwalk” emerges as an exploration of perception, barriers, and persistence. The fence serves as a metaphor for mental, emotional, or physical boundaries that age and experience can wear down. Behind the wooden barrier lies the sea, a symbol of openness and freedom. In Zen terms, this speaks to transcending the ego’s illusions. From an I Ching perspective, it illustrates that while life has its obstructions, they can be weathered, revealing paths forward for those willing to perceive beyond the surface.
The technique used here recalls some elements of American folk art, with a focus on rustic textures and the natural decay of materials. It also brings to mind the works of Andrew Wyeth, who often portrayed weathered buildings and rural landscapes, evoking themes of time, isolation, and memory. The boardwalk framing device acts as a trompe-l’œil, creating an interesting interplay between the physical frame and the painted scenery, blurring the line between art and reality. This approach invites viewers to ponder the meaning of thresholds and perspectives.
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“Hold Tight #2” was featured in his Yes Retrospective
Reproductions of this drawing are available in multiple sizes!
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This artwork is available with a non-fungible token to ensure traceability and transparency of provenance.
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