EDWARD WRIGHT
ARTIST’S STATEMENT

This collection of small tarnished silver mirror frames is a collaboration between me and my daughter Allison. Each frame has been securely joined with wooden splines and screws. After an initial application of rabbit skin glue, the basswood is coated with several coats of traditional gesso. The surface is then brought to a fine polish through sanding with several grits of paper. Red clay is then mixed with rabbit skin and applied to the highlights on the molding. The clay is then flooded with water to accept small sheets of silver leaf. The precious leaf is applied with a three inch wide squirrel hair brush. After drying, the leaf is burnished to a bright luster with an agate.

Examining the particular shape of the molding, the texture of the gesso, and Allison’s application of the precious metal, I have chosen natural objects like bark, twigs, or rocks to guide my work. The frame finish is created by working with the texture, color, and shape of both the frame and the object. Applying traditional framemaking techniques, I discover new ways to work with the molding shape and the finishing materials.. The desired result is achieved through distressing, rubbing through the leaf, spattering, stippling, glazing, tarnishing the leaf, and patination. I am constantly going back and forth between the object and the frame noticing new aspects of each. My first attempts often need to be modified, removed, or replaced. The result is a layered look, built to create depth. Closely examining the frame one will notice many colors and contrasting treatments of the molding contours. It is this reworking of the frame that brings depth and beauty to the final patination.