“Carmel by the Sea” Mixed Media on Canvas, 40″ x 30″, Custom Acrylic Frame

“Carmel by the Sea” – A Contemporary Tribute to Ancient Stone Stacking

This striking 40×30″ mixed media artwork represents a profound exploration of humanity’s timeless connection to nature through the ancient practice of cairn building. Created by Dallas contemporary artist Christi Meril, “Carmel by the Sea” transforms the simple yet profound act of stone stacking into a vibrant abstract composition that speaks to our primal need to mark our presence in the natural world.

Drawing inspiration from the carefully balanced stone cairns found along hiking trails in the Colorado Rockies, this piece captures both the meditative quality of stone stacking and its deeper cultural significance. Throughout history, cairns have served as navigation markers, spiritual offerings, memorials, and symbols of human passage through sacred landscapes. From ancient Celtic burial mounds to Buddhist stupas, from Inuit inukshuk to Native American trail markers, the practice of stacking stones transcends cultures and speaks to our universal desire to create meaning through simple materials.

The painting’s dynamic vertical composition mirrors the precarious balance of actual stone cairns, while the luminous colors – emerald greens, crystalline blues, sunset oranges, and deep purples – evoke the changing light and seasons of the Pacific Ocean and beautiful town of Carmel, California. Each painted “stone” contains its own universe of color and texture, suggesting the unique character of individual rocks while celebrating their collective harmony when thoughtfully arranged.

This artwork continues the artist’s longstanding fascination with natural forms and geological patterns that began at the start of her professional journey. The piece invites contemplation of our relationship with the natural world and our innate desire to leave gentle, temporary marks of our passage through wild places.

Custom framed in sleek acrylic, the work is ready for immediate installation in contemporary residential or commercial spaces. The piece particularly resonates with collectors who appreciate art that bridges ancient wisdom and modern aesthetic sensibilities.