Artist Statement: 

     Forest fires are a sobering example and manifestation of the anthropogenic effect on our world. While over 80% of forest fires are started by human hands, they are also often a direct result of climate change. As of late October, there have been a total of 48,366 reported wildfires across American soil, burning over 6.5 million acres (disasterphilanthropy.org). In California alone, there are currently three active, large fires that are constantly adding to the total 2.5 million acres burned across the state. Not only do these fires destroy vegetation and trees, but they ravage animal and human habitats. Inspired by a CNN photo of the California forest fires from September, this painting offers a contrast between the beautiful color and the all-consuming destruction of wildfires. In this piece, I sought to draw the viewer in with glowing flames and fuming light. The intensity of color and application of paint is meant to convey the power and heat that radiates from fires to this degree, and the burnt skeletons of trees, slowly being engulfed by smoke, are meant to make the fire feel unending.

Enquire: natalie_stitt1@baylor.edu