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Mystical Jewish Artwork - detailed crayon etching

Mystical Jewish Artwork - detailed crayon etching

Description

This image was made entirely with multiple thick layers of crayon, which I etched away with a hunting knife. The technique I use is tedious but creates a feeling of heightened focus, so I have a sort of spiritually meditative experience while making these. The image is a chamsa (traditional Jewish symbol for luck), and is decorated with swirling colorful patterns and detailed carving.

7.5" x 10.5" crayon etching on sturdy board

This etching has a protective layer of polyurethane which creates a beautiful liquid gloss look on top of the crayon, and keeps it safe from scuffs.

For many generations in my family, being Jewish was a secret. So much a secret that it was almost forgotten! My relatives have vague memories of their grandmothers singing to them in Hebrew when they were children. I remember my mother telling me about dreams she's had with braids morphing into challah or havdalah candles, or where a secret magical family name is being hidden within the folds of a mother's braids. I am the last practicing Jew in my family, and I've been feeling the need to combine this with my artwork. Because I have only dreams and fragments left in my family, instead of thick strong roots, the artwork I've created so far is very surreal and magical, like trying to remember a far away dream before it vanishes.

Added on Sep 25, 2009