Midnight Symphony
by Richelle Mechem
“I reference natural systems, terrestrial records, and astronomical phenomena through media that offer high relief and textured surfaces. My Midnight Series was informed by the Nevada night sky—its vast darkness, quiet intensity, and rhythmic mystery above the desert landscapes. My artwork functions as an abstract record of energy, movement, and time rather than as representations of specific topography. My process is driven by surface construction, in which material accumulation and relief form the foundation of each composition. I build my compositions using art and construction materials on wood panels, allowing texture and relief to play a central role in the work. These materials enable me to construct dense, layered surfaces that extend beyond conventional painting and approach near-sculptural surfaces. My work seeks to evoke mystery and wonder, prompting reflection on both the scientific and spiritual aspects of nature and the cosmos.”