Mother

Mixed Media - color pencil and burned cigarettes and matches.
click image to view at larger size.

In creating this drawing, I wanted to create an image that showed the glamor and sophistication once associated with smoking. The woman is based on a photo of my mother, taken when she was in her twenties. Using light pencils on black created a dark, otherworldly atmosphere. She is trapped beyond the smoke, flames, and the burning embers; unable to be saved and unaware of the danger.

The paper is ripped, with a rough edge. Using real cigarettes has more impact than a drawing. The dirtiness of the burnt cigarettes, ashes and matches dispel any beauty that might be seen in the drawing.


My mother died in 1995 at age 70. By time the cancer was discovered, it had spread throughout her entire body, and the doctors were not sure where it originated. Since she was a heavy chain smoker, lung cancer was suspected.

This drawing will be on display at Limestone Coffee & Tea during the month of October as part of Creep Show. There will be a Creep Show event on October 22, 5-8 pm,

Limestone Coffee & Tea, 15 East Wilson Street, Batavia, IL


You can see samples of my graphic design work at http://www.lsydesign.com