Crucifixion, 63×96″ iron and rust on panel. Copyright Ruthie V.

This is my submission for the Fate of the Forest show opening June 17th at the Whatcom Museum.
The title of this work “Crucifixion” is a double reference; first to the painting “Crucifixion of Saint Peter” by Caravaggio from which I borrowed a couple of the figures, and second to our affecting actions towards that which we love so much. Our local culture still carries a romantic ideal of homesteading the wilderness, so we carve places for our homes out of the trees, and we build things (like this painting) out of wood for the warm substantial beauty of it. I don’t believe our local forests are doomed, but I do think we can work to find a thoughtful and sustainable balance between our love and our sacrifice.
Crucifixion of St Peter, Caravaggio
Exhibition Opening: Evergreen Muse: The Art of Elizabeth Colborne (1885-1948) and Fate of the Forest: An Open Hanging
Friday, June 17
6 – 7 PM:  Member’s preview reception with Guest Curator, David Martin, who will speak about Evergreen Muse: The Art of Elizabeth Colborne (1885-1948) and selected artists from Fate of the Forest: An Open Hanging sharing insights into their work.
Followed by a free public opening from 7 – 9 PM.
Whatcom Museum, Lightcatcher Building, 250 Flora Street, Bellingham WA