Art and the Natural World
In my artistic endeavors, I'm deeply committed to cultivating a profound connection with nature, transcending mere aesthetics. Through the medium of sculpture and painting, I strive to unveil the intrinsic harmony and vitality of the natural world, beckoning viewers to engage with a deeper understanding of their own essential selves.
Nature, with its myriad forms and complexities, serves as both muse and mentor, guiding my creative process. Each stroke of the brush or push of clay is imbued with the intention of capturing not just the physical manifestation of nature but its intangible essence—the movement birds through an empty sky, the play of vines around a form, the expression resulting from the arc of the neck in a human figure. Often, natural elements in my work are intertwined with additional layers that provoke thought— prompting viewers to delve inward for their own interpretation, fostering introspection and reflecting their personal experiences and emotions.
Central to this pursuit is the recognition that true artistic resonance lies not in the pixel-perfect replication of nature facilitated by algorithms, but rather in the human touch—the imperfections, nuances, and emotive depth that only a handcrafted piece of art can convey. It's in the tactile sensation of brush against canvas or the reverberation of a tool against metal intertwined with a connection with the divine where the magic truly resides.
Moreover, the impact of art transcends the mere existence of a finished product; it lies in the profound connection it forges between the artist and the viewer. This connection, often unspoken and sometimes unknown, imbues each artwork with a distinct narrative and significance. Even without knowledge of the artist's identity, viewers can be deeply moved or inspired by a piece of art, drawn to its emotive power or aesthetic allure. It's this intangible bond that distinguishes the art we live with from the mass-produced commodities found in commercial outlets or the impersonal creations churned out by artificial intelligence.
In a world increasingly dominated by digital simulations and artificial works of art, my work serves as a reminder of the irreplaceable value of human creativity and the profound experience of engaging with art that speaks to the soul. It's an invitation to rediscover the transformative power of art as a conduit for reconnecting with our innate humanity and forging a deeper, more meaningful relationship with the natural world that sustains us.
I will be participating in a group show called “Woman Kind” in Southern Oregon at Langford Gallery opening on April 4, 2024. The show features 11 woman artists and benefiits sveral organizations including Community Works and The Association of University Women. The works I will be presenting speak to the connection of nature and art and I will be taking most of the works from the show to the Museum of Danish America for a 6 month solo exhibition which opens on May 24.