Parenthesis (Oil) is the first of my Surface Tension series. I drew this large-scale diptych during The Deepwater Horizon oil spill of 2010. Approximately 4.9 million barrels of oil leaked into the Gulf of Mexico for 87 days, damaging the environment and wildlife. I chose graphite, a carbon derivative, to draw oil-sheen patterns woven into the ocean I love so much.

Eyes stare at you for a reason. We have created a world totally dependent on fossil fuels. It is crucial that we develop alternative, renewable energy sources —  not only for our environment but because petroleum won’t last forever.

Why a parenthesis? According to grammarist.com, a parenthetical expression is “an interlude from the regular course of events.” This parenthesis makes you stop and look at the ocean full of oil sheen — a warning about our environment and our future. 

My heart broke watching oil pour into the Gulf of Mexico on television. Our consumption choices affect our fragile ecosystem. How we light and heat/cool our homes and get from one place to another affects our environment. What we eat, its packaging, and how we dispose of it are all important decisions.

Imagine sailing on a broad reach under full sail through an oil sheen. Imagine the Anhinga drying her wings full of fuel. Imagine the beautiful nature around you dulled by an unnatural amount of heat, wind, and water. 

I sailed from Chicago to Florida forty-two years ago and lived aboard a small sailboat. Summertime was hot. Moisture evaporated into storm clouds that produced massive thunderstorms every afternoon at two. This pattern has changed because of heat generated — more development means more concrete that reflects heat.

Parenthesis (Oil) demands your attention. The diptych is 88” wide — the large scale gives ample space for image weaving. Abstract oil sheen patterns are illusive threads woven into this drawing as a warning. 

Pay attention to environmental changes and develop smart alternatives to dependence on fossil fuels.

In 2010 Parenthesis (Oil) won recognition from renowned Miami gallerist Fredrick Snitzer at New* Art exhibit at The Armory Art Center, West Palm Beach, Fl.