Artist uses electricity to make shockingly original works

"Blossom and Moon" by Cory Hunter

Miami artist Cory Hunter has found a new way to integrate science, nature and art with his electrifying artwork.

Hunter uses his background in science and chemical engineering to harness the power of electricity. He uses an insulated electrode as a special brush that interacts with a stationary electrode inserted into the canvas. Hunter uses different levels of voltage to create interesting, branching patterns.

Hunter explains on his website:

"Fractal is derived from the Latin word 'fractious,' defined as broken or shattered glass, and is a mathematical articulation of form, chance, and dimension. A pattern is fractal if it is self-similar on different scales, equally rough from near as as from far, and is difficult to measure. My work explores the spontaneous organic form as it occurs in naturally occurring fractal patterns."

Using his interest in classical and oriental art, Hunter wanted to focus on exemplifying the stroke of the electricity.

He uses electricity on a variety of surfaces including cardboard, wood and corrugate panels and to imitate lightning striking any other non-conductor. The resulting patterns, called Lichtenberg figures, resemble a tree struck by lightning. Hunter's Vine account shows close-up looks at how the fractal patterns are formed. He then paints around the electrified etchings to create interesting, mixed-media works that range from Chinese cherry blossoms to depictions of the burning Twin Towers. 

Hunter’s work has been shown around Miami, but he has been performing live paintings for the public. In the future he plans on studying more about the science behind electricity and experimenting with other mediums such as glass.

"Green Tree" by Cory Hunter

"Stripes" by Cory Hunter

Sources: Studio360, WLRN Miami,