Charcoal is created by heating organic materials, such as wood, in a low-oxygen environment through a process called pyrolysis. This process removes water, volatile compounds, and gases, leaving behind a carbon-rich material. The result is a lightweight, porous substance that burns at high temperatures with little smoke—ideal for grilling, industrial applications, and … art?
Not to sound dramatic but charcoal is forged from a dying flame. There is not enough oxygen for a raging fire, but just enough to keep an ember alive. It’s a product of nature, shaped through fire, yet its final form seems anything but natural. A chalky, messy black mass that crumbles to powder in your hands.
As an art medium, charcoal is different from other materials like clay pigments used in rock art. It is not long-lasting and it doesn’t ever dry or set without a sealant; a delicate drawing can be wiped away with a single swipe, as though it were never there.
It feels sloppy at first. It gets everywhere. Spreading it across the paper, it seems impossible to achieve anything precise. Yet, as you darken certain areas and erase others, step by step, shadows, highlights, and figures begin to emerge.
Inward Arrows - charcoal dept. will be a staple of the brand. Still rooted in Protection, The Main design of the clothing is inspired by my simple sketch of “Lightning”, a Horse Spirit which symbolizes power, freedom, and protection. This will be further described in the next blog post, “The Main Characters”