aletha israels

i am fascinated with what seems to be a basic human need
for ornamentation. color and pattern have become a cultural
demand and sign of civilization. there is, and historically has
been, an aesthetic undercurrent in society to adorn
everyday objects and environments with decorative elements
that do not contribute to the objects practical or symbolic
function. often, objects and images are intended to seduce
their viewer based on purely aesthetic appeal.
my paintings reconstruct color, pattern and forms based on
consumer products into kaleidoscopic environments. my
paintings exploit a visual language that is used to decorate
our homes and literally worn on our sleeve. In borrowing
patterns from visual culture the viewer is provided with a
sense of familiarity when viewing the work. as an artist,
I take what already exists in the world and reconfigure it,
in order to reflect our current place and time. these densely
layered, highly decorative canvases are a celebration of life
and endless possibility.

pocket paintings 4 x 4 each

some like it hot 24 x 24