“Mount Carnelian” (2023)

WiL Vélez, Mount Carnelian, 2023.

acrylic on paper (90 lb/250 gsm)

artwork: 7 x 7 in (17.78 x 17.78 cm)

overall dimensions (framed): 14 1/8 x 14 1/8 x 15/16 in (35.88 x 35.88 x 2.38 cm)

This painting includes a 12 x 12 in. (30.48 x 30.48 cm) acid-free 4 ply (1/16 in) mat board in cream linen with 6.5 x 6.5 in. (16.51 x 16.51 cm) square cutout and 45-degree white core beveled edge, a 12 x 12 in. clear acrylic pane (3/32 in. depth) with non-glare glazing and OP-3 UV filtering and a 1 1/4 in. (3.175 cm.) profile wood frame in matte black with 12 x 12 in. opening and overall dimensions of 14 1/8 x 14 1/8 x 15/16 in. (35.88 x 35.88 x 2.38 cm).

Mount Carnelian is the third painting in an ongoing series inspired by a recurring dreamscape—towering, surreal rock formations rising above a sea of clouds. Following Andesine Liths (2023) and Kyanite Towers (2023), the work continues the artist’s exploration of shifting dream imagery and imagined terrains.

Named after the carnelian gemstone—known for its ember-like glow—the piece evokes the warmth and intensity of its namesake. Palette knife strokes form vertical masses and jagged peaks, each contained within thin black lines that separate tonal values and lend structure to the composition. The white of the cold-pressed paper is intentionally preserved in areas, heightening contrast and enhancing the luminosity of the color.

Like others in the series, Mount Carnelian navigates the space between memory and imagination, rendering a world that feels simultaneously distant and vividly real.

This is a unique, original artwork. Its image, like all images on this website, is the copyright of ©️WiL Vélez. All rights reserved.