Fragments of a Journey II

24" X 72" | ready to hang| mixed media on carved birch with artifacts

Rey’s signature series is inspired by his life’s journey.  The wooden oar, found at sea, represents the experiences of migrants and immigrants who leave their homelands in search of a better future.

"I’m interested in the interactions between color and spatial relationships that naturally develop during my process."

Using painting and sculptural techniques, Rey intertwines carving and painting with a variety of media. Simultaneously painterly and unrestrained, his paintings are composed of complex layers, many of which are over-painted and concealed, until elements are brought back to the surface .

Utilizing a chisel, a traditional wood-working tool, Rey incises his drawing into the surface of his painting, providing an outline for the painting. These lines later gain further significance, either inferring the long slats used in boat-building, or creating the textured lines that remain visible in the finished work.

 I describe my work as “abstract painting with nautical and architectural references”.