"River Islands No. 01" (2023)

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WiL Vélez, River Islands No. 01, 2023.

stain and acrylic on paper (140 lb/300 gsm)

artwork: 8 x 8 in (20.3 x 20.3 cm)

overall dimensions (framed): 14 3/16 x 14 3/16 x 3/4 in (36.04 x 36.04 x 1.91 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, a 1 5/16 in. (3.33 cm) profile distressed ornate baroque wood frame in bronze with 12 x 12 in. opening and overall dimensions of 14 3/16 x 14 3/16 x 3/4 in. (36.04 x 36.04 x 1.91 cm).

The seemingly identical works, River Islands Nos. 01 & 02 (2023), are part of the artist’s ongoing exploration of mapmaking as a visual language. Drawing on a lifelong interest in creating imaginary maps, the paintings depict abstract island and river formations in a simplified, symbolic style.

Created during a period of experimentation with water-based stains, both pieces feature a palette of jewel-like blues and greens, characteristic of the artist’s work at the time. Liquid brass is applied along selected river lines to emphasize certain paths or intersections. Each painting also includes a pinpoint marked in brass, indicating a spot of possible significance within the imagined landscape.

Together, the two works suggest a system of invented geography and personal meaning.

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