Fuego is inspired by the many news reports on global warming and the devastating effect it is having on our planet; it is also the result of my reflection on the way in which the phenomenon of global warming is dealt with by the media. We are continually subjected to images of natural disasters where fire is often the leading actor. These images raised questions for me about the paradoxical nature of humanity’s relationship with fire.

As the only essential element that humans can create, fire is for some a manifestation of the divine while for others it evokes the flames of Hell. Fire, accordingly, is an excellent example of duality. Certain civilizations have raised it to the level of a sacred symbol of purification, inspiration and revival; they covet and control it for its heat, its light, its beauty and its mystery. On the other hand, fire is also feared for the devastating force with which it reduces our forests and homes to ashes; and we are left powerless to control its destruction when fire appears on the heels of volcanic eruptions and lightening strikes.

Intrigued by these thoughts, I began my project on the topic of fire. The result is a series of paintings on the walls around you, but presented with a twist. Visual elements taken from the daily news have been altered and deconstructed, giving the viewer an impression of getting only part of the story – in much the same way as a television watcher who has become desensitized to the rolling fire of horrors unfolding on the screen. Resembling small screens, little digital images follow one on the other, connecting each painting to the next, in the fashion of sparks of fire. On some paintings, children’s handprints act as a stop sign, a command to reflect upon and react to the fate of the handprints’ owners. They are the heirs to the thoughtless and indifferent generations that have come before …

Patricia Pigeon

October 2007