Every painting tells a story, but the story behind creating a painting is often just as compelling. For my latest piece, “Red Rope, Pedestal, and Power,” the process was a deeply immersive journey that combined human connection, discovery, and artistic exploration.
Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at how this painting came to life—from the first spark of inspiration to the final brushstroke.
1. Conversations that Inspire
Every piece I create begins with a conversation. For “Red Rope, Pedestal, and Power,” I sat down with an artist from Indonesia in residency at Vermont Studio Center in Johnson Vermont. Through immersive interviews and conversations, I listened to their personal challenges and triumphs. These candid interviews revealed profound stories of vulnerability, resilience, and power—narratives that became the foundation of the painting.
“Art is my way of translating these shared experiences into something tangible and universal.”
2. From Notes to Research to Deeper Narrative
During each conversation, I dive into detailed note-taking, capturing the words and emotions, pauses, and underlying themes. These notes often spark follow-up questions, prompting deeper discussions that uncover layers of meaning in the personal narratives shared with me. It’s in these moments—when we go beyond the surface—that the most compelling ideas emerge.
Once the stories are distilled, I take time to reflect and research. Key ideas from these conversations often lead me to explore broader connections—archetypes, societal structures, and the intricate web of human relationships. For “Red Rope, Pedestal, and Power,” comments regarding societal constraits and personal restraits on self expression was crucial in understanding how themes of authority, vulnerability, and connection resonate across cultures and time.
This process of digging deeper transforms intimate moments into universal truths, creating the foundation for a painting that not only tells a story but invites viewers to find themselves within it.
3. Visualizing a Key Ideas with Sketches
Words became rough sketches, and concepts took shape. This stage is all about finding the visual language that can capture the essence of a story. Sometimes, these visual images arrive quickly; other times, I struggle to find the right visual language. Regardless, the opportunity to fully attend to a fellow human being, for them to feel heard, and for me to learn more is an experience rewarding in itself. For this painting, I quickly developed four sketches that circled around some key themes of our conversation. I then narrowed in on a single idea, and the visual idea that I felt could best convey a piece of their life story.
3. Setting the Stage: Photo Shoot
To bring depth and realism to my work, I conducted a photo shoot that would guide the composition. From lighting to posing, every detail is carefully orchestrated to reflect the emotions and tensions within the narrative.
4. The Painting Comes to Life
With notes, sketches, and photographs in hand, I began painting. This is where all the pieces come together—the stories, the visual framework, and the spontaneous energy of creation. “Red Rope, Pedestal, and Power” explores the push and pull of control and vulnerability, strength and fragility. Each brushstroke adds layers of meaning, inviting viewers to find themselves in the story.
A Glimpse at the Final Work
“Red Rope, Pedestal, and Power” by Deborah Scott
This painting invites you to reflect on the complexity of human experiences. It’s a story of resilience, connection, and the tension between intimacy and authority.
Why I Share the Process
For me, the process is as important as the final painting. It’s where discovery happens, where stories are transformed, and where connection begins. Sharing this journey with you is a way to invite you into the heart of the work.
Let’s Stay Connected
If this behind-the-scenes glimpse resonates with you, I’d love to hear your thoughts.
- Leave a Comment: What part of the process intrigues you most?
- Follow the Journey: Stay updated on my latest works and projects by subscribing to my newsletter here.
- Learn more about Red Rope, Pedestal and Power. Discover how it fits into my practice and a wider body of work.
- Explore More: Check out other paintings and their stories on my portfolio page.
Closing Thoughts
“Red Rope, Pedestal, and Power” is more than just a painting—it’s a reflection of shared human experiences. Through art, I aim to uncover the universal connections in our personal stories.
Thank you for joining me on this creative journey. Let’s keep exploring the world of art and storytelling together!