Celestial Boundary by Caroline Lizarraga , a panel painting

55 1/2”W x 44 1/4”H

In this vibrant new work, San Francisco decorative artist Caroline Lizarraga invites viewers into a cosmos of her own making. Moving away from purely atmospheric studies, this piece embraces a dynamic, kinetic energy, utilizing the fluidity of acrylics to create a swirling topography of deep indigos, sea foams, and terrestrial greens.

The composition is dominated by ribbon-like tendrils that weave between suspended spheres, recalling celestial bodies or microscopic cellular structures. Lizarraga layers the acrylic medium to achieve a jewel-toned intensity, building a sense of depth that feels both aquatic and galactic.

A defining feature of this work is the bold application of a rectilinear gold leaf border. The metallic leaf acts as a structural anchor, reflecting light and contrasting sharply with the matte and gloss interplay of the paint. While the gold frames the central chaos with architectural precision, the artist has deliberately left the work "uncut," allowing the pigment to spill past the gilded edge onto the raw paper. This choice exposes the process—the drips, the grid lines, and the creative energy extending beyond the boundary. It transforms the work from a static image into an immersive object, offering the viewer a glimpse into the act of creation itself. Whether displayed in its current raw state or cropped for a traditional finish, the piece remains a powerful testament to Lizarraga’s ability to blend organic fluidity with structural elegance.

San Francisco

2025