Putting Natural Elements to Frames

Who would have thought that natural earth elements like pyrite, wood, jasper and agate can be utilized as a 2D wall art interior decorations of a house or a building?

This goes with former Cebuana fashion designer and interior decorator Elaine Cooper as she holds her first art exhibit entitled “Petrified Wood” at Canvas Bistro, Bar and Gallery at The Terraces, Ayala Center Cebu. The artworks displayed in the gallery which were abstract in theme are made up of natural recesses like petrified wood (a wood that is mixed with other natural elements), black pyrite, semi-precious stones and agate.These are mounted in frames using resin, veneer, stainless steel, leather and graphic-coated glass materials.

“This is one of a kind. It can’t be replicated. It is not the usual artwork compared to paintings. I want to create something that’s different. My inspiration is just drawn out from the passion as an artist,” Cooper said.

She explained that petrified wood is unique since the process of wood petrification normally happens in two natural scenarios, through flooding and volcanic eruptions.

Along with her is her daughter Elise Lim, a second year Fine Arts student also displayed her artworks through paintings. In an interview with her, she said that her inspiration is taken from her aspiration to travel to Africa to help raise awareness of the distant culture they have there. The theme of her paintings are African people, using acrylic on canvas.

Friends, colleagues and relatives joined in the art exhibit opening. The art exhibit runs until June 1, 2013.