Some say the word Flamenco comes from the Spanish, flama, or “flame.” Richard MacDonald’s Flamenco Series employ that definition on many levels. While the studies depict a male figure at various stages of the passionate dance – Capeo, Braceo, and Suspension - the touch of the artist’s hand remains palpable in the works as if he has just now put down his tools and stepped away. Always absorbed by human theater, MacDonald gravitated to dancer Jordi Caballero whose authentic and entertaining Latin-based choreography is internationally known. Jordi inspired MacDonald to begin a series of works that examine the flamenco’s sensual composition. Like the dancer, the studies portray the steps and tensions of passion and seduction. While he works, the artist becomes part of the dance, and the finished sculptures contain the flamenco’s energy even as his fascination with surface suggests the dance’s symbolic obsession. “Braceo”, or the brace, embodies emotional intensity, proud carriage, and expressive use of the arms and rhythmic stamping of the feet.