As a child I was fascinated by the story of Icarus. Articles written about him malign him for “flying to close to the sun”, in other words, that he was overambitious. They even tried to pin a psychiatric diagnosis on him. The reality is that he was young, excitable and therefore felt invincible. No one mentions his bravery and the complete trust he placed in his father.
In many ways, Icarus and Daedalus’ story reminds me of our artistic journey: taking risks, pushing limits, exhibiting bravery, soaring high, sometimes crashing, but always trusting our creativity and skills.
That Daedalus and Icarus prepared well for their journey is evident in the bottle of wax, instructions and additional feathers. These items can be removed and placed elsewhere in the shrine. You can even add your own treasures!
Original Assemblage Art by Sylvia Larkin
Medium: found objects, acrylics, patina, R&A’s, Dresden papers, texture paste on wood
Provisions for hanging in back. Comes with a certificate of authenticity. 11” x 9” x 1.5”
"Hope" is a Steampunk Santos. She is a powerful reminder of the vulnerability of our race becoming conversation dependent. I loved creating her because she represents many things I care about, such as the eco system, recycling, our beautiful planet earth and its amazing inhabitants.
The organic Chakra crown created from a bird nest and lotus pod with its butterflies, bees, a cross and tiny human figurines reminds us that we are all connected and in need of protection! I added two pieces of the Berlin Wall (indicating change) and quartz crystals to clear the mind of negativity. The bottom part features lights that can be turned off and on and some of the endangered animals. There is a mini Santos that slowly rotates with the help of a motor. Hope is holding a lantern (operated by batteries) that sheds lights on the problems we face.Secret messages are embedded inside the cage.
I was born in Nabburg/Germany to a family of refugees and raised in Frankfurt. Early on I was surrounded by a very creative family, especially my maternal grandfather who was thought to have "golden hands".
I expressed an interest in art at an early age and worked with a variety of mediums: silver, enamel, folk art painting, and jewelry making. During my career as a R.N. Case manager I started to focus on art professionally and prepared for my art career prior to my retirement.
Over the years I collected unusual and bizarre objects, but was not clear about my direction. That is, until I came across work by assemblage artist Michael DeMeng. It was truly a light bulb moment!
The nature of my work involves found objects, such as discarded wood,metal, old clocks or toys. I collect, arrange, re-arrange and embellish them all. I use textures, cloth, small metal objects, seed pods or shells to decorate the project. Layers upon layers of acrylic paint are added, transforming them in the process.
Chance plays a large role in my work, since I never know what I will encounter on a daily basis. My often symbolic work is influenced by global and life events. Some of my art is a deliberate attempt to create a dialogue. My creations capture the reality of life, tell a story and are authentic expressions of my passion for life and the situations I find myself in.
Multiple pieces of her works were elected as part of the Newest Originals Curation Category and Newest Emerging Artist, by Artslant, NYC in 2016.
She was featured in Artsy Shark's "The Creative Process" in 2017.
“Bold Brush My Informed Collector” listed her as a featured artist in 2017.
“Voyage Houston” featured her in 2018.
Sylvia lives and works in Houston, Texas with her husband, Michael, her dog, Taco, and her cat, Mouse.
Ancient Wizard Magic Wand Just under 30 Inches Tall $225 + Shipping
"How do you create Magic on a daily basis in your life?"
Setting my intentions for the day causes me to remain focused! Exercise keeps me grounded and expressing my gratitude through journaling helps me stay positive! Having a magic wand will greatly assist you in staying in touch with mother nature, clarify intentions and redirecting energies! I love the organic feel of this wand, the incorporated leaves, moss, textiles, beads, feathers, found objects and citrines! The citrines literally glo, surrounded by many layers of rich acrylics and textures. The wand feels very comfortable in my hand. Did you see the all seeing eye located on the bottom of the wand?
Once it was completed it did remind me of a wand that ancient wizards would have used to create their magic.
