Eli Grimes
I have been focusing primarily on natural form and different ways of conveying it . By drawing from artists such as Michael Kenna and Katsushika Hokusai , I have discovered new ways to interpret and represent nature and ecology .
Photography enables me to cross creative boundaries , escape the limitations of conventional techniques , and highlight and emphasise aspects where I see fit : grandiose and gothic proportions ; insulation and isolation ; delicate grace and beauty ; precious fragility . A picture tells a thousand words , and I see purpose in using every letter .
To me , woodblock prints permit a similar level of visual manipulation , especially given the depth and variation of colour options . The union of intricate attention to detail within the blocks and the wood pattern emulates a level of intimacy and understanding with the environment .
Another technique I have discovered and engineered is the use of high-power electricity to create unique natural shapes known commonly as Lichtenberg Figures . When lightning strikes , the jagged , forked shape that appears is one of these figures , formed as electrons move through a dielectric , or highly resistive material , attempting to find the ‘ path of least resistance ’. On wood , these patterns are less natural , governed by the placement of conductive solution , and the lignified borders contained within the grain of the wood . I find that this ‘ grain bias ’ adds another layer of depth to the fractal pattern , a secondary story told between the deep , burned lines . Using these burned slabs of wood , I am able to create prints or standalone works , representative of the frightening power and exquisite detail aforementioned .