cosmic consciousness

Nebulae continue to be the most reoccurring theme in my artwork and one of the best things in the Universe. I cannot get over these awe-inspiring, glittering bundles of cosmic life dust. Aren't they just surreal? The vibrant colors, the beauty, the depth, the magnitude, the evolution- they are so incredibly magical. One glance through NASA's Astronomy Pics of the Day and I'm reminded of how much mystery, magic, and constant creation there is in our Universe. They inspire me to trust in the unknown and the unseen, to believe in the bigger picture, to dream, and to rest in the knowledge that there is so much more going on in our Universe than we could ever imagine. I was super excited when I was asked to do a commission of the nebula Monocerotis (below). Not only do I love painting these probably more than anything (mountains are a close second), but I feel my star pieces are the best representation of who I am and what I stand for, so they have extra meaning and symbolism for me.

A few more galaxy and nebula inspired pieces I've done:

Oil Spill Nebula- 24 x 24 Acrylic on canvas. Contact for prints.

Signs commissioned for Mountain Sun Pubs in Boulder

Galactic Growth. An old favorite.

I'm reminded of the forms and elements of nebulae in the most random places... wet oil stains on the pavement and colorful agate stones. Some nebula induced awakenings for you all to feast on:

   

   

I loved the old Stardust sign in Vegas. I saw it one day before they tore it down. I could write a whole entry on the space themed style of the late 50s/early 60s- such a great genre of style! That sherbet sunset adds an even more spacey vibe to this vintage postcard.

I wish they still did these kinds of psychedelic light shows at concerts. Just colored oils and water on a the glass of an old school projector. Such a natural, biological feel to those swirling, twirling projections... and it leaves the imagination up to you...

   

Candy agate

Erte "Starstruck"... Always so ahead of his time

                                         

And if this video doesn't inspire a feeling of Universe awe or a desire to heal the earth, I don't know what will. John Muir would be proud..

sources top to bottom: My own painting, Brice Bickoff photography, agategrrl.com, Jeffrey Campbell shoes, unknown, Nat'l Geo Northern Lights photo, Brice Bickoff photography, postcard unknown, Zappa concert Joshua Light Show,  Michael C. Turner galaxy painting, agategrrl.com, Erte "Starstruck," 60s couple unknown