Brass & Copper Cuff Bracelet, Agate Gemstone Set In 24 Carat Gold

Love Tap

I came to the South Carolina Lowcountry in 2003. In 2004, I settled in a cottage on New  Castle Street in the Northwest Quadrant of the town of Beaufort, the Historic District. I had the good fortune to take up my residence before gentrification replaced street theater with middle class trappings.

Across New Castle Street from my cottage the daily drama played out before my eyes witnessed from my front porch and front windows. I recorded the scenes in sketches in my journals. Some sketches found their way into my paintings.

“Love Tap” is a prominent such oil on canvas, 31 inches by 56 inches. The painting features CJ and friend en ballet, shadow boxing a nearly daily dance of such poise and grace to fully capture my attention and admiration…respect. That and scenes like that,

“Street Theater” was effectively evicted by “the market”. I made the painting, “Love Tap” en homage and mourning.

A look at the canvas as it developed:

Now follows the progression:

Lightening WhelkLatex Coatings
• 10/13, 0858hrs
• 10/14, 0638hrs
• 10/15, 0921hrs
• 10/17, 0514 hrs
• 10/17, 1702hrs
• 10/18, 0506hrs
• 10/18, 2154hrs
• 10/19, 0557hrs
• 10/19, 1725hrs
• 10/20, 0913hrs
• 10/20, 1823hrs (11 coatings)
• 10/21, 0546hrs
• 10/21, 2001hrs
• 10/22, 0815hrs

To understand why it’s called “lightning whelk,” consider these points:
• The name “lightning” refers to the striking, zigzag patterns on its shell.
• Lightning whelks are known for their fast movement, resembling a flash of lightning.
• They are often found in coastal areas, where storms and lightning are common.
• The species is recognized for its unique spiral shell shape, which adds to its distinctive appearance.
• Their scientific name, Busycon sinistrum, reflects their left-coiling shell, further distinguishing them.
• The term “whelk” itself is derived from Old English, indicating a type of sea snail.

All movements are in six stages. The seventh brings return