"Aspen Trees" Collection
ASPEN TREES
Collection Release Tuesday November 24th, 11am MT
“For just a moment we take a break to feel the shift of seasons. A break so we can slow down, catch our breaths, and find a place in the landscape that is changing all around us.”
This collection came from a place of adoration I have for the landscape of Colorado. I was born here and moved away at a young age so most of my vacations growing up were spent coming back to Colorado to enjoy the beauty and vibrant colors that come with every season in the Rocky Mountains. Spring hiking/camping trips, summer picnics at my Grandparent’s cabin, fall color peeping, or winter ski trips all usually along side a grove of Aspen.
With this series I wanted to capture the captivating personality of an Aspen Tree through playful line, shape and color. Aspen are so much more than a tree. It is hard to decide what is the most memorable about them: the tall, tube like clusters of white, the peaceful sound of their quaking leaves in summer, the eye-like markings on their trunks or the vibrant yellow and gold colors that people flock to watch change in the fall (my favorite season).
Not only are they magical to experience in person but they help us find our place in the landscape. They show resilience as they are the first tree to spring up after a forest fire. They emulate the unbreakable bond of family as they stand together all connected by a extensive underground root system. They have an abundant need for sunshine and never stop growing-even in Winter.
About 4 months ago I experienced a strange coincidence that still happens to this day of glancing at the clock and seeing 11:11am or pm or even 1:11. I have had creating a series of paintings around Aspen Trees on my mind for quite some time. Since the number 1 itself reminded me of Aspen…it felt as if it was a little sign nudging me forward. I titled the first painting I created after this peculiar experience. At first this collection was going to be solely around Aspen and their changing colors. But once I landed on my color palette I knew I wanted to bring in hints of spring and summer. I also opted out canvas for wood board because I can't help but love the way the paint glides on the smooth surface and I can easily get my gestural drawing marks across.
This past fall I was lucky to spend an entire week up in Snowmass, Colorado at the end of September to watch the changing colors of the Aspen. While there I gathered countless of photos for reference. By far one of my favorite memories of 2020.
In light of the unexpected challenges the year 2020 has brought, may we look to the Aspen and remember how we have grown. Be reminded of our own resilience during troubling times. To not forget our deep roots with our loved ones and that we are all better together. As we slowly shift into winter my hope is that these paintings would serve as sweet reminders to slow down, take a breath and look to nature to find your place in this ever-changing landscape, no matter what the season.
All Photos by Taylor Brandon of HOUSE42
