Covenant
Oil on linen
12 X 18 feet (3.65 X 5.50m)
1989-91
Covenant
Basing its subject on the early settlers in America, the painting depicts a scene in two sections, one on the Pilgrims who came on the Mayflower ship and landed at Plymouth, the other on misfortunate events and cicumstances surrounding earlier settlers. The painting’s two sections are parted at the center top by a red-yellow sun surrounded by pendulous forms that extend themselves over the entire picture surface.
At the top right side, dripping lines around the sun oriente the sail of the Mayflower ship and navigate toward three joined figures alluding to the signatories of the Covenant. Figures suggesting natives with objects and elements associated with agricultural staples such as cornstalks, bean vines, and squash. The lower forefront shows a clergyman above a fallen female figure holding a torched broom making reference to burning of witches.
The left section deploys a grouping of dark blue figures against a red ground blending varying levels and echoes with their surroundings.
