A crucible is a vessel in which metals or other substances are heated to very high temperatures. The word carries other meanings with it, for instance a purification using fire, a person being tested by extreme difficulties, for instance. There is a sense of our country being tested in a crucible right now, as each of us attempts to make a difference In the overheated situation we find ourselves in. As I painted this, it took on the look of a fiery vessel, perhaps under pressure. I will continue to paint emotional images that sometimes say more than I can with words.