Stained (2007):

Encaustic and Oil Stick on Fabric. Each panel 12x12x1

These images are part of a larger series that taken as a whole, draws attention to child trafficking, prostitution, or pornography. The distressed children portrayed in these individual panels may, however be open to a broader interpretation of child abuse, such as neglect or battering. Either way, the images suggest a denial of human rights that leads to the loss of childhood innocence. I have submitted a number of details so that the full concept of these paintings may be understood. With a single exception, the fabric upon which the encaustic is painted could be used in children’s clothing, bedding, or furniture decoration. The patterns and themes depict colorful butterflies, rainbows, and popular fictional characters such as Pooh Bear and Lightening McQueen. The fabric designs can be seen on the 1” deep sides of each panel and also in parts of the image area where the encaustic is either transparent or carved away. By juxtaposing representations of troubled children with scenes of childhood happiness and fantasy, I illustrate the lost innocence and security that is lost when children suffer at the hands of devious adults. A single exception to the child-themed fabric is seen in the stained blue and white ticking used to cover cheap or old mattresses and pillows. This sort of fabric suggests something unclean and sinister, possibly conveying to some viewers the sexual theme that I intended for this work.