SQUIRREL IN THE GRAPES
ACRYLICS ON CEDAR W/RED OAK FRAME
SUMMER 2024

    Those that grow grapes in their garden often battle with the squirrels when it comes time for the fruit to ripen.  The squirrels can be a major nuisance and the end result is often one of compromise.  A common Japanese theme, the combination of squirrels and grapes was frequently seen on ceramics, lacquerware, textiles, painted scrolls, and woodblock prints.  Surprisingly, squirrels and grapes were a playful symbol for continued good health, in contrast to the annual autumn conflict.  Inspiration for my composition came from such diverse artists as Ito Jakuchu and Miyamoto Musashi.  The design for the squirrel was also inspired by both Northwest Coast Native and Celtic art traditions.  I made the frame for this painting out of red oak using pegged, hand-joined, mortise-and-tenon construction methods.   I used the Japanese technique (shou-sugi-ban) of charring and oiling the oak to finish the frame.  This painting is a modified smaller version of another painting I previously did on a shikishi board.  I specifically made this painting for the Matzke Gallery’s “Honey, I Shrunk the Art” 2024 show.

DIMENSIONS:          HEIGHT:  10 inches
                                  WIDTH:  9 ¼ inches

                                                                PRICE $250


​Gary Giovane
La Conner, WA
[email protected]
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