Fireweed

Artist Statement: The fireweed blooms to the top in August, my favorite month in Alaska. My grandfather and I share a birthday in August, so this flower is special to me. My teacher found a box of wood in the classroom that we primed with gesso. When I selected this board, I was interested in the bark on the side that we called a “live edge”. I learned how to prime and gesso wood. I worked from a photo of the fireweed I took over the summer. I really tried to capture the pinks and the actual colors of the fireweed. I really enjoyed this piece. It is one of my favorite pieces I have ever done. It was a lot of fun to work on. The fireweed is a symbol of Alaska, and this painting captures some of the beauty of our state. The board represents the woods that I love. The stunning, delicate, and beautiful flowers balance the rustic nature of the trees.