Sigrún Lára Shanko of Shanko Silk in Reykjavik has developed a unique multi-layered technique using relief, painting, dyeing and batiking, to create an image with depth and intensity. Each piece tells a story, or saga, of the old days of Vikings and Norse gods. For example, the tondo shown here, called Companions, or Wealth, relates the Havamal 47 which says, "I once was young. I was traveling alone and lost my way. Rich, I thought myself when I met another. Man is the joy of Man." A close examination of the piece reveals runic letters in a spiral in the background of the entire painting. These runes from about 500 AD, quote the Havamal 47. The picture in the middle is of two Viking ships passing, or meeting along the way. The ships even appear as if they are entertwined together, as in a joyous embrace. Sigrún says that she uses this technique of writing the poems in runes so that the words don't take over the picture, and the subtile batiking and many layers of painting and dyeing does not allow the picture to overcome the words either. This artwork is exquisite! To see a closer view of it, or learn more about Sigrún Lára Shanko visit our website at http://www.listhusgallery.com/, which will be up and running on March 1st.
