Fire is an energy effect

This convection is what draws out the tongues of flame. The hotter flames and sparks rise up, creating a vacuum effect which draws cooler air into the base of the fire, continuing the combustion cycle. Fire dissipates when the combustibles are exhausted. Because of this glowing combustion, colors ranging from whitish yellow to dark orange are primarily what you’ll see in a natural fire. Fires do not become dark red or black as they cool. As the flames rise and lose their heat, they become a darker orange, but never as dark as a molten or superheated material does when it cools.

"Envisage"

Acrylic on canvas 40 x 50 cm

Fire element

By tradition fire represents the active and masculine or the Yang of Chinese symbolism. Its major symbolism is related to the sun and the powers of transformation and purification. Its fundamental movement is upward and the basic symbol for fire is an upward pointing triangle or pyramid. Colours of fire are red and orange which are the characteristics of flames.

"Anticipation"

Acrylic on canvas 50 x 60 cm

Fire relations

Some widespread emblematic fire relations are passion, extreme emotions, enthusiasm, negative feelings, greediness, hatred and antagonism. Red colour as a warm colour is used as a symbol of guiltiness, crime and fury.

"Renaissance"

Acrylic on canvas 60 x 90 cm

Symbolism of fire

Different symbolism clusters around fire and flame and the images will usually depict some kind of energy positive, negative or neutral. The context of our portrayal of fire and flame will influence our experience of the images. The emotions that are evoked will be influenced by the impression and associated imagery such as smoke, soot and haze which are also adding to the ambiance an artist can generate.



"Envision"

Acrylic on canvas, 50 x 70 cm