They were ressurection pieces, actually the phoenix of the plant world because they assumed a new life, the second time around. It made me think about the passing of life and how memories continue to keep a certain person alive and vital in the world of the living. A continued companionship between this place and that.

Dried plants and withered leaves had assumed other characteristics in my mind as well. They told me that growth and development throughout life leads to the characterization of our physical selves and an expression of our inner strength. Those plants that had survived the harsh winds of fall and the heavy snows of winter, continued to stand tall and proud and they were able to because of their flexibility. Rather than relenting under the heavy breath of ferocious storms that topple the oak, singular weed stalks bend with that wind and spring back to normalcy after the calm. That is what I consider real strength.

Upon close examination, I saw that dried out trunks, stalks and leaves of plants redesign themselves into another form than the original. The forms are gnarley and rugged, textures highlighted, pores opened. There is a self reevaluation that takes place between the seasons and then adjustment to a new condition where chemistry changes and water sustained cells vanish. There is constant wonderment at the amazing gifts these things offer up.

Thus the idea of the "Maverick Weed" series began. A weed....think about it. We disregard them when they are growing and responding to the sun and the demands of propagation. They are common and not viewed with appreciation.

The only reason we ignore such things is because we refuse to look at them. But these weeds are majestic and noble. I know it and they know it. They are the mavericks of the garden because they are insistent in promoting their own beauty. Relentless in their determination to provide a habitat not only for insect creatures, but shade and a nurturing environment for the fledgling forest that spring up from the seeds around them.

As in other forms that I draw upon for source material, I can never do them justice in my work. However, I can reinterpret the inherent force they contain and pass on to others, something of their silent message.

So I made up a series of works as garden sculptures, interior pieces, architectural works, proposals for a twenty foot weed for a public building (never commissioned). Related forms unconsciously sprang from this series and leaked into other pieces as well. As subject matter, I can never tire of it and as in the other things that I do, they still continue to appear in my work from time to time.

Chris Ray

  related maquettes and studies