Crimson Maple Sphere

When summer is just too hot and I am eagerly awaiting cooler temps, you can count on these rich colors to show up in my work. The theme of one of my favorite trees, Japanese Maples, with their fall brilliance inspires me to get into that vibrant ink in hopes of soup and “sweater weather”.

This mid sized cannonball gourd measures 7” High x 6 1/2”Deep. It features an array of fall colors from deep orange to crimson that gleam in the light.

By using layer upon layer of different transparent ink mediums, the leaves can appear as though they are changing as the viewer gazes at them.

Small areas between the tops of the leaves and the double gold leafed rim of the top opening have been carved away, creating a lacy peek into the interior. The margins of the cut outs are painted with carbon fiber black so that you see nothing, a void of light juxtaposes with the gleam of the rich colors and inky black body.

There is a waltz of elements between the inky black body, saturated colors of crimson and orange, the glean of a small double ring of gold leaf, the gleam of the brass top and the void of velvet black, working together as they invite the viewer to pause for a moment.

The top is comprised of brass and home grown black bamboo. I only harvest after the cane no longer is living. This sweet little sphere of fall color sits permanently adhered to the vintage 3 legged stand like a happy Buddha.

I can only hope that the viewer feels the love and joy as I created this happy and color saturated sweetness.