Latif

by Karen Fitzgerald

“The relationship of matter and spirit is at the heart of my work. The physicality of the earth is tangible and real. Another dimension is indelibly linked to that materiality, one that is experienced though it cannot be measured or delineated. That elusive relationship between matter and spirit has been explored extensively in verbal form—poetry, philosophy, metaphysics—and those texts are essential touchstones in my work. Finding forms to translate that awareness into visual language is an essential commitment in my work. Latif is an evocation of something fine, delicate, tender; may it suggest the lightness, delicacy and transcendence of matter. The ephemeral can be something with great strength. I use fluid media—watercolor, thinned oil paint, mica. These layered surfaces are luminous and subtle. This way of working demands that I step back from my intentionality and trust the process, giving voice to the materials I am using. I incorporate gilding with precious metals as a way of adding to the “other worldly” quality I am seeking.”