AshesToAshes

I have completed Vicky’s last cigarettes that she sent me in the mail. I used the three broken cigarettes that were in the pack and stuck them back together again. I designed the artwork around the toril gates found at the entrance to Japanese Shinto shrines because I find their architecture both harmonious and peaceful. The paper scrolls at the top of the shrine are fashioned after the Buddhist prayer wheels and the written text on them simply repeat over and over again “One day at a time”. Once again for consistency I used the gauze as a symbol of healing and, to ensure consistency from one work to another. Unseen, below the gauze is a simple book of Japanese rice paper that repeats the mantra “Success is just not one puff”. On top of the gauze is a makeshift cross on which the cigarettes are hung or crucified. (The use of the cross is not intended denigratory to the Christian religion). The color is alizarin orange with Indian yellow lights shining through, symbolizing light and passion and strength.