The Duel : Print

The Duel was one of my fastest ever created pieces. And, interestingly, has become one of my signature paintings. In 2017, when I had my first studio in Asheville at Trackside Studios, I also got my first solo show downtown Asheville at Mountain Madre. I had just seen an octopus while diving and was so inspired by them, I wanted to do the show entirely focusing on octopuses. Also, they would look fantastic with the Mexican cuisine of the restaurant.

I painted several octopuses and I can’t remember if I didn’t measure the space beforehand, or I simply was estimating the space. A week before the show, I went in and discovered I had SO much extra brick wall space to display on! And.... began to panic. I needed a crown jewel. A giant painting to anchor the show. I needed an idea....and one came. Octopuses dueling in the ocean. Mostly based on my imagination (as they are solitary animals and rarely photographed together,) this painting was created in a week, mostly at night as I was still working my day job. I was so pleased with how it came out, and it was a great exercise in working under pressure! 

I was incredibly nervous for the show, as I always am (and back 9 years ago when I told people the theme of the show they did give me a “are you crazy?” kind of look.) Now octopuses have become much more mainstream which is wonderful! I was filled with support from friends, family, and supporters, and Hank found his forever home that night. Soon after, The Duel also found its forever home. 

Available in 8.5" x 11" or 16" x 20". Every print is hand signed by me & each order is packed with lots of love!