This series of “Icons for isolation” that have been produced to reflect on one’s personal experience of the current lock down. The illustrations here are not part of that proposal. This will be a new work depicting Hell, heaven and earth in the isolation. Some people are finding it hell, others heaven, while many are just carrying on.
Sources for this are many. In particular reference is made to Russian orthodox icons and catholic alter pieces. What makes this unique is trying to show these non-religious icons in a reverential light without descending to parody. In this, the work will be of interest to other artists struggling with the boundaries of spirituality and secularism.
Traditional techniques have been mimicked. The paintings are on wood, and much use of gold-coloured paint is used. Imitation gold leaf will add to the effect. The cross shape here is due to the scrap wood being that form already and inspiring these two images.
40 x 40 cm. Bath.
Stephen Spicer. l feel left out/Icons in isolation. 2020. Pencil and acrylics on paper,
20 x 20 cm. Bath.
This was the first one, I made it one night early on in the isolation, when I was feeling as if the world was happening somewhere else , may be a party I hadn’t been to.
15 x 15 cm. Bath.
15 x 15 cm. Bath.
40 x 40 cm. Bath.
These done on scrap wood, which inspired the work. On the left, Ruth and the Cat, the cat being a source of comfort in these times. At the bottom, me with the world in a cage. Represents how I feel. Not restricted, but actually quite free, it’s calm out there at the moment. There’s no sport on TV, there’s no socials to go to. That of course may be hell for you and will form the subject of the next picture.