more about this piece; influences and intent

Entering the First Rapid, Winslow Homer, 1897, watercolor on paper

"Pyxis Awry 2021 (wedge-first rapid)" was created during the 2nd Trump impeachment trial in mid-February 2021. I was deeply troubled by the inaction of the United State Senate and like other works in the Pyxis Awry series the cascading, out of control vessel is a metaphor for a person or group of people who have lost the bearings of their inner compass and as a result are adrift and in danger.

The two part subtitle differentiates this piece from others in the series. Wedge is a direct reference to the largest physical element in the sculpture - an actual bronze cast of a wooden “felling wedge”, complete with its chainsaw marks - which I had cut from a tree to insure it would fall in the proper direction. It also and more figuratively coveys my deep concern that the recent impeachment ruling and the political animus it furthers, will further wedge our country apart.

The second part of the subtitle - first rapid - is a nod to the 1897 Winslow Homer watercolor Entering the First Rapid (above) portraying two oarsmen at the moment before they enter the turbulent and dangerous water ahead. I was unaware of this painting until it coincidently appeared in one of my social media feeds while I was working on this piece. Being a big Homer fan and an avid kayaker it resonated as a perfect metaphor for this pivotal moment in our history and what lies ahead for a country which seems hopelessly divided and politically adrift.