Icon Pyrophorous 1969

Clarence Holbrook Carter created "Icon Pyrophorous" in the latter half of the 20th century, a period marked by significant social and political change. The artwork, with its concentric circles of green and yellow, evokes a sense of meditative calm. It is tempting to see it in relation to the rise of environmental awareness and the search for spiritual meaning amidst the anxieties of the Cold War era. Carter’s choice of the word "Icon" in the title suggests a desire to create an image that transcends the purely aesthetic, pointing towards a deeper, perhaps sacred, meaning. The term "Pyrophorous" which describes a substance that ignites spontaneously in air, imbues the work with a sense of hidden potential, a quiet energy waiting to be unleashed. Rather than offering a traditional representation, the artwork develops an alternative narrative, inviting viewers to find their own emotional and personal connections to the imagery. "Icon Pyrophorous" reflects both the societal search for meaning and the personal journey of finding light within oneself.