The Dietz No. 40 Traffic Gard lantern was built for a serious purpose: warning drivers of dangerous road conditions, hazards, and accident scenes. Its bold red color and practical design immediately caught my attention, bringing to mind a lonely warning light glowing through the rain at the scene of a nighttime accident.
Painting this lantern became an exploration of red on red on red, with the transparent nature of red acrylics presenting both a challenge and an opportunity.
Building up layers of color gradually revealed a richness and depth that made the process equally frustrating and rewarding. What fascinates me most is how such a simple, utilitarian object could play such an important role in keeping people safe. Its unmistakable color and purposeful design give this lantern a character all its own.
