Based upon an idea of the ancient string maps created and used by the natives of Fiji, Maps Songs Lenses represents an exploration of the concepts of measurement and observation. The uses of language and metaphor in descriptions of our environment and world serve as the focus of this series....

Based upon an idea of the ancient string maps created and used by the natives of Fiji, Maps Songs Lenses represents an exploration of the concepts of measurement and observation. The uses of language and metaphor in descriptions of our environment and world serve as the focus of this series.

The series encompasses three types of work: maps, scrolls, and screens. In each, the artist’s poetry is central to the work. The maps are rendered with silkscreen and oil on canvas and attached to a bamboo frame with brass wire. The bamboo frames differ in size and shape for each work. Silkscreen and oil on canvas with bamboo dowels at top and bottom comprise the scrolls. Large wood panels with gold leaf, ink, and silkscreen are hinged together to form the screens.

Included in this series are an extensive collection of mylar proofs used in the creation and publication of a compilation of the poems. Copies of the book’s final version have not been located. In addition to the poem proofs, there are examples of the book’s cover.

The work in this series was created and exhibited in 1987.