Long Beach, CA

This piece is inspired by the Latin American culture and the outsider tattoo culture. Both of which have a large presence and influence in Long Beach and Southern California. The Christ photo is of the "Cristo del Sagrado Corazón" statue which overlooks the coast in Rosarito, Mexico. Besides paying tribute to the Mexican culture this also gives a nod to the surf culture, as Baja California is a surf haven. The tattoo sign is from Port City Tattoo in Long Beach. The Dias de los Muertos skull is, of course, reverential to Mexico. In the tattoo sub-culture the added antlers are a symbol of power and strength.

This is a mixed media, collage assemblage. The image consists of a background of watercolor and ink on paper, photography and digital illustration. These element are collaged and glued on a wood backing. Then it is decoupaged. The frame is made from repurposed wood which is stained with danish wood oil. The exterior hardware is distressed by soaking in white vinegar and lemon juice. I used a hot iron brand to burn my name and location into the front, right side of the frame.