ROASTED NIGHT JEWELS
1985
by Eric Whollem
wax medium on paper
Collection of the artist
9" x 6"
COPYRIGHT BY THE ARTIST
ALCHEMICAL SYMBOLS IN MODERN ART
This painting attempts to evoke the uses of the alchemical retort:
reducing materials to their elemental base. In eastern symbolism
one often hears about the 'mani jewel' being the quest of enlightenment.
The 'jewels' in the above painting seem to be minerological specimens
that take on seeming organic functions as well. This interfusion of
symbolic levels is part of the Great Mystery.
Some of the pictographic symbols in this painting appear to be types
of alchemical appartus. Retorts with extended necks are part of the
design.
Alchemists used to try to understand geology, biology, as well as
stellar phenomena; all branches of modern science have their roots
in the studies of the alchemists of old.
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THE ALCHEMIST'S TABLE
by Eric Whollem
BELOW IS A VIDEO
ABOUT MY USES OF
NATURAL MATERIALS TO MAKE
PAINTS
EARTH PAINTINGS BY ERIC WHOLLEM
