Oregon Trail: Celadon and Silver

Three paintings capture the essence of the Oregon Trail through a unique artistic approach. The artworks feature celadon green and silver metallic paint, adorned with white and ghost letters derived from pioneer correspondence.

The ghost letters, created by negative space, contrast with the white text, adding depth and intrigue to the compositions. All text is sourced from authentic Oregon Trail letters, providing a poignant connection to the past.

These pieces reflect on the trail's somber legacy, with an estimated 65,000 deaths over 25 years – equivalent to a grave every 50 yards from Missouri to Oregon City. The artist explores the motivations behind pioneers' risky westward journey, which shaped the American West's ethos.

This painting process involves: Layering paint and text, Sanding away sections, Reapplying paint and text, Creating a palimpsest of history

This technique results in a surface that tells a story through its very texture, blending historical accounts with modern artistic interpretation. The distorted, muted images along the trail further enhance the sense of time's passage.

By combining historical elements with contemporary art techniques, these works offer a unique perspective on the Oregon Trail's enduring impact on American culture and landscape.