The Illuminated is the second piece in the What Remains series — six large-format mixed media paintings exploring what persists in a landscape after disruption.
A cyan base layered with crimson red ink creates an unexpected violet and purple atmosphere — the two colors merging into something neither intended alone. Ghost impressions of Dalmatian Toadflax and Spreading Dogbane fill the background, pressed into wet ink then removed. Where the red threatened to overpower, metallic blue and purple marks outline the botanical forms — giving the piece the quality of an illuminated manuscript, each plant rendered as if sacred and worthy of preservation. At the center, Peony foliage carries Dogwood blossoms in a single graceful branch, permanently embedded and rising from bright green lichen.
The only piece in the series without cheatgrass texture at the base — its stillness is intentional, a moment of quiet within the wilder world of the series.
Size: 16x20x1.5"
Medium: acrylic and botanical on canvas
Note: The painting is protected with multiple coats of Fine Art Fixative to help shield against UV damage, as well as archival varnish spray for added UV protection. Hanging paintings in direct sunlight will affect color retention over time.
