I Am a Field of Bees
I Am a Field of Bees is a collection of work in progress that considers the cost and responsibility of choice with a series of oil paintings referencing various chairs scaling up to 6×6 ft. Following recurring themes of home, risk, and reformation, the project explores the piece of furniture as an invitation: each with varying associations to history, class, comfort, necessity, etc. that are entirely unique from person to person, from artist to viewer, but which ultimately portray a path of some appeal, sacrifice, and permanence.
To inquire about studio visits, exhibitions, purchases, or collaborations, please email elisabethzarnickart@gmail.com
“Bystander”
40×30 in. oil on canvas 2020-2026
“Invitation”
48 × 36 in. oil on canvas 2026
Featured Studies, Reference Material, and Works in Progress
6 × 6 ft. work in progress in collaboration with local upholsterer Joe Benassi references EAMES 1958 Aluminum Group Sling Chair used in the grand opening of the Astoria Public Library in 1967, found tucked away and forgotten in the basement during the recent remodel of the building’s interior and reupholstered in the original blue Herman Miller fabric.
Reupholstered or salvaged objects act as a tool in the consideration of choice and attachment: When do we give up? What is the cost of the attempt? The cost of letting go? At least two paintings in the series reference works by Benassi, including the “Rung Chair” below.
Rung Chair in progress
Top to bottom: Rung Chair, Being In Love, Apples on Ground, Vase Study
Figure Study
Apples on Ground