Virtuoso may be one of the most layered works of this size ever created by Collins.

Every
wing is different — the materials change, the lengths, the composition,
the shadows. This chaos should not work together, and yet it becomes a
symphony of flight to come.

The
assemblage of book covers, old license plates, a violin, and ancient
notes from the 1800s all combine into an evolving story that will change
with each viewing.

For
example, look at the shadow the light casts upon the violin — yet it is
not a shadow, it is paint from Collins' brush.You will notice this
throughout many portions of the painting, adding a depth that could be
mistaken for visual trickery, but is instead a pleasant surprise.

The
word Virtuoso itself is derived from the Latin virtus, meaning
excellence or skill. And though we associate it with great proficiency
in art and music, it was originally used to describe scholars who
excelled in their field.

For
Collins, perhaps a virtuoso is someone who is able to balance work,
love, and life — like an instrument that requires constant tuning and
adjustment, but when right, sings of pure beauty. In reality, none of us
are truly virtuosos in this, yet it is in the striving that our
happiest days are most often found.

It is a painting of hope and striving. Of imperfection aiming for something greater.