Alpha and Omega

Alpha and Omega, mixed media on paper, 14"x 18", (c) Elizabeth Adams

Natalie asked me to publish a larger photo of the image shown in the post about my former workspaces, so here is one, plus a couple of details.

I did this piece a long time ago, when I had first seen and loved the calligraphic work of Thomas Ingmire and some of his colleagues. The background texture is completely built up of layers of lettering, in ink, gouache, and perhaps diluted acrylics - I can't remember - on a background of layered washes in various media that were then distressed by sponges or even by running the paper under the tap. Linocut stamps of the alpha and omega characters were also applied randomly all over the background. The technique relies on the water-solubility of certain pigments and the resistance of others.

The text, of course, is "I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end." The large characters were done with a very large brush in sumi ink, and there are additional stamps over them in white. Some of the small lettering was done with metal-nib pens, and some (the white "I AM"s) with a semi-sharpened twig dipped in white pigment. The center of the large Omega was worked to create a luminous white glow that's more effective in real life than it is here.

This was an experiment that got more serious as I went along; unfortunately I ended up slicing two piece of paper together and the line between the two mars the appearance of the finished piece. As a digital image it could now be completely corrected - but I don't think I had that capacity at the time the piece was done.

Comments

[Marja-Leena]

Beautiful! I love the layering and reworking of the letters, making it look like some ancient weathered document or drum top. Thanks for showing it in detail though I still wish I could see it in real life.

[Natalie]

Absolutely marvellous! Thanks for posting this, Beth. I hope you'll do lots more in this vein.

Did you notice the amazing, harmonious ressemblance with the ice photo below?

[Dick]

Very striking, Beth. There's something of the stage set design about them. They'd make brilliant backdrops or flats for a production of the first part of the York Mystery Cycle!

[Jean]

I love this, and it's great - to see some of your old work and to think of you re-exploring and finding new forms now.