Fritz
©2011 Craig Ashby
Mixed media on wood.
10″ x 8″

This is a self-portrait entitled Fritz I finished in late 2011. It is the first time I use spray paint in a piece. This time flourescent yellow. More of that New York City “Post No Bills” aesthetic I am trying to achieve.

First point of note, the paper that is underneath my face in this image was sent to me by the amazing Billie Durham (along with the most delicious cookies)! Sorry it took so long to post this one, Billie. I love that it’s tissue paper and how it took to the wood underneath. It pairs nicely with the Chuck Close bit under the severed Statue of Liberty arm. I say that with the kindest regards to both of you.

In this piece I am attempting to turn the ready to wear of the PR-RAW series into couture. Each page is carefully thought out, including placement and cut. And there are several elements that are added beyond the normal scope of a four layer cut. Take for instance the 39 in the bottom left, an important number cut and aged from a laundry bill.

It’s great how the skateboarding logo flame with melting Woody in the upper left-hand corner is offset from its flourescent spray layer. The clarity with which you see my photograph of the Hudson River. The drippiness of Woody. It all works.