Ron Burkhardt
American Cascades, 2023
Earth Art Acrylic, enamel, indigenous soil fused in water and bleached in the sun
45.5 x 57.5 inches
In its simple white backdrop, America's rich history and profound energy is imprinted on the alabaster undertones of a well-weathered flag that has been
twisted and stirred but whose resolve has never been shaken. The varying shades of red, white and blue exalt traditional American flags, and are redolent of the drama of fireworks.
Between the glitter and majesty inherent in this aura, America's pride is personified. These primary colors also honor the ever-changing, illuminated waterfalls of the world-famous "Cascades," found on a magical hillside in Jackson, Michigan, the artist's home-town. Every summer night, as visitors walk up to the tall pole flying the American flag on top, then down around the spraying fountains, an orchestra plays below while fireflies flicker in the dusky evening skies and cascading banks of water are lit in ever-changing vibrant colors. Colors that inspired the artist's creations from an early age.