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LovelandPolitics
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by Margie Ellis October 1, 2013
Since I was not contacted to give my response to the story regarding the so-called controversial artwork I
created on the electrical box near Wilson and 1st Street, I felt it necessary to counter some of the remarks
made. Rather than address all of the inconsistencies and complete misconceptions, I will focus on
explaining the true meaning behind my work.
The theme for the Transformation Project of 2012 was, “Science meets Art,” and because of my love for the
genre, I based my art more specifically on Science Fiction. My initial goal was to capture the viewer’s
attention with visually striking images. There are specific elements of art that I consciously select in order
to achieve the desired impact, and color was one of those elements.
As I brainstormed for images to submit for the 2012 Transformation Project, I first researched what
Science Fiction entailed. I searched online and discovered that it often involves specific elements. I chose
four elements as the basis for my artwork. Here is a breakdown of each panel and how it relates to the four
specific Science Fiction elements.
They are as follows:
1) A spatial setting or scenes in outer space on other worlds
Panel #1- This is the first panel which faces Wilson directly. The setting of the water hands was meant to
be seen as something from another world. The concept behind this panel was inspired by Michelangelo's
artwork, “The Creation of Adam.” In this rendition, prior to “Creation”, the planets shown are grey. Once
passed to the hand of “Creation”, they are given properties of color, pattern, and variety thereby adding
visual interest.
2) Paranormal abilities such as mind control, telepathy, telekinesis, or hypnosis
Panel #2- This is the panel that has been completely misinterpreted, and has therefore, become
controversial. The image shows a young female with a hypnotic look offering to the viewer a levitating
sphere containing the universal symbol of the atom. Any search engine will provide similar images when
searching “atom symbol.” Perfect for the subject matter! I selected the infusion of a warm color scheme
juxtaposed against a stark contrast of dramatic lights and darks. These components spotlight the central
figure of the piece, the young female.
Though it was not used in my artwork, but was referenced in the article, I thought I would add
clarification regarding the Triquetra. (listed incorrectly in the article as the triqueta). Prior to reading the
article, I had no knowledge of the triquetra symbol. A simple Google search provided me with the
following information. According to dictionary.com, it is defined as, “A geometrical point that has three
points, especially one formed of three intersecting eclipses: The triquetra was often used in ancient art to
symbolize a triune deity”. To further explain what triune means, dictionary.com says, “It is three in one;
constituting a trinity in unity; as the Godhead”. Again, I must emphasize that it was the atom symbol I
utilized, and not the triquetra.
3) Characters that include aliens, mutants, androids, or humanoid robots
Panel #3- Again, I opted for one specific color theme (shades of purple). This illustrates an image of a man
who appears to be robotic with illuminating orbs emanating from his head. The orbs represent
transmitted knowledge as they float into the air.
4) A setting in the future or in an alternative time line, with unknown civilizations different from those
of the known present or past
Panel #4- I rendered a woman who is placed in a setting where she is contemplating the ancient past or
the future. Her attire makes the viewer wonder if she is a time traveler. The question arises, “Is she from a
future of an unknown civilization or from the past?”
Panel #5- This top panel requires no explanation. It depicts a colorful DNA strand that highlights what the
theme was for 2012, “Science meets Art”.
I would like to clarify one last misconception in regard to a supposed hidden agenda. Originally I was
assigned a different box at another location, but once I saw its irregular shape, I requested a new box.
Another artist was in need of a box as well. After the committee searched around town they allocated the
spot on Wilson. Since we both had scenes representing space/planets it made sense to put them next to
each other. This is how I came to be at that specific location.
So there you have it, the facts and the explanation behind the artwork I created on Wilson near 1st Street.
It was never my intent to create art that would be controversial; there were no hidden agendas, no
witches, and nothing dark of nature. I would acknowledge that artists rarely achieve universal appeal.
We take risks and expose ourselves by expressing a part of who we are and because of that leaves us open
to alternative interpretations. My artwork has proven to be such a case. Artists can be very critical of
their own work, but after completing the work on the Electrical Box, I can honestly say that I have a sense
of pride in the result.
I have always recognized that I have a God given talent and that the true glory goes to Him. As I walk
through this world, I am contemplative of my thoughts and actions. People are certainly entitled to dislike
my art, but dislike it for what you truly see, not for what you think you see. Anyone interested in viewing
more of my art can access this link.
In closing, I would like to add that I appreciate the warmth and kindness Pastor Jim displayed in allowing
me to use the church building. Since the true meaning behind my artwork has been revealed, I hope that
it helps provide another perspective for anyone who sees something other than the truth.
Since I was not contacted to give my response to the story regarding the so-called controversial artwork I
created on the electrical box near Wilson and 1st Street, I felt it necessary to counter some of the remarks
made. Rather than address all of the inconsistencies and complete misconceptions, I will focus on
explaining the true meaning behind my work.
The theme for the Transformation Project of 2012 was, “Science meets Art,” and because of my love for the
genre, I based my art more specifically on Science Fiction. My initial goal was to capture the viewer’s
attention with visually striking images. There are specific elements of art that I consciously select in order
to achieve the desired impact, and color was one of those elements.
As I brainstormed for images to submit for the 2012 Transformation Project, I first researched what
Science Fiction entailed. I searched online and discovered that it often involves specific elements. I chose
four elements as the basis for my artwork. Here is a breakdown of each panel and how it relates to the four
specific Science Fiction elements.
They are as follows:
1) A spatial setting or scenes in outer space on other worlds
Panel #1- This is the first panel which faces Wilson directly. The setting of the water hands was meant to
be seen as something from another world. The concept behind this panel was inspired by Michelangelo's
artwork, “The Creation of Adam.” In this rendition, prior to “Creation”, the planets shown are grey. Once
passed to the hand of “Creation”, they are given properties of color, pattern, and variety thereby adding
visual interest.
2) Paranormal abilities such as mind control, telepathy, telekinesis, or hypnosis
Panel #2- This is the panel that has been completely misinterpreted, and has therefore, become
controversial. The image shows a young female with a hypnotic look offering to the viewer a levitating
sphere containing the universal symbol of the atom. Any search engine will provide similar images when
searching “atom symbol.” Perfect for the subject matter! I selected the infusion of a warm color scheme
juxtaposed against a stark contrast of dramatic lights and darks. These components spotlight the central
figure of the piece, the young female.
Though it was not used in my artwork, but was referenced in the article, I thought I would add
clarification regarding the Triquetra. (listed incorrectly in the article as the triqueta). Prior to reading the
article, I had no knowledge of the triquetra symbol. A simple Google search provided me with the
following information. According to dictionary.com, it is defined as, “A geometrical point that has three
points, especially one formed of three intersecting eclipses: The triquetra was often used in ancient art to
symbolize a triune deity”. To further explain what triune means, dictionary.com says, “It is three in one;
constituting a trinity in unity; as the Godhead”. Again, I must emphasize that it was the atom symbol I
utilized, and not the triquetra.
3) Characters that include aliens, mutants, androids, or humanoid robots
Panel #3- Again, I opted for one specific color theme (shades of purple). This illustrates an image of a man
who appears to be robotic with illuminating orbs emanating from his head. The orbs represent
transmitted knowledge as they float into the air.
4) A setting in the future or in an alternative time line, with unknown civilizations different from those
of the known present or past
Panel #4- I rendered a woman who is placed in a setting where she is contemplating the ancient past or
the future. Her attire makes the viewer wonder if she is a time traveler. The question arises, “Is she from a
future of an unknown civilization or from the past?”
Panel #5- This top panel requires no explanation. It depicts a colorful DNA strand that highlights what the
theme was for 2012, “Science meets Art”.
I would like to clarify one last misconception in regard to a supposed hidden agenda. Originally I was
assigned a different box at another location, but once I saw its irregular shape, I requested a new box.
Another artist was in need of a box as well. After the committee searched around town they allocated the
spot on Wilson. Since we both had scenes representing space/planets it made sense to put them next to
each other. This is how I came to be at that specific location.
So there you have it, the facts and the explanation behind the artwork I created on Wilson near 1st Street.
It was never my intent to create art that would be controversial; there were no hidden agendas, no
witches, and nothing dark of nature. I would acknowledge that artists rarely achieve universal appeal.
We take risks and expose ourselves by expressing a part of who we are and because of that leaves us open
to alternative interpretations. My artwork has proven to be such a case. Artists can be very critical of
their own work, but after completing the work on the Electrical Box, I can honestly say that I have a sense
of pride in the result.
I have always recognized that I have a God given talent and that the true glory goes to Him. As I walk
through this world, I am contemplative of my thoughts and actions. People are certainly entitled to dislike
my art, but dislike it for what you truly see, not for what you think you see. Anyone interested in viewing
more of my art can access this link.
In closing, I would like to add that I appreciate the warmth and kindness Pastor Jim displayed in allowing
me to use the church building. Since the true meaning behind my artwork has been revealed, I hope that
it helps provide another perspective for anyone who sees something other than the truth.
| My Reply by Margie Ellis (the following response was submitted in reference to LovelandPolitics.com's article "Capricious Power" |
| Local artist Margie Ellis painting the controversial utility box at the entrance of the Assemblies of God Church on the corner of Wilson Blvd. and 1st Street. |