Statement
My work is an investigation of the fragile and volatile moments between acts and their aftermath. Presented in various states of consumption, whether literal or psychological, the bodies I depict confront the viewer openly and aggressively. This confrontation is complicated by the fact that the figures, although threatening, also appear vulnerable and afraid. The seductive quality of the painted surface adds to the contradictory aspect of these works, by inviting you to observe closely, only to yet again be repelled by these animalistic and even grotesque figures. Ominous scenes appear tinged with ritual and sacrifice; often referencing the caliginous tone of artists such as Caravaggio and Goya.
In contrast, my recent works have begun to take on the characteristics of submissive witnessing and metaphorical passage. The figures are passive and disengaged from the viewer; completely engulfed in their own thoughts. Their faces, along with aspects of their environment are often obscured through dramatic light, shadow, fabric or fog. Shrouds, veils, and smoke serve as representations of the states of mind that accompany transitions, such as failure, grief, death and memory. These ambiguous narratives provide a space for the viewer to project their own thoughts and fears into the work.
My work is an investigation of the fragile and volatile moments between acts and their aftermath. Presented in various states of consumption, whether literal or psychological, the bodies I depict confront the viewer openly and aggressively. This confrontation is complicated by the fact that the figures, although threatening, also appear vulnerable and afraid. The seductive quality of the painted surface adds to the contradictory aspect of these works, by inviting you to observe closely, only to yet again be repelled by these animalistic and even grotesque figures. Ominous scenes appear tinged with ritual and sacrifice; often referencing the caliginous tone of artists such as Caravaggio and Goya.
In contrast, my recent works have begun to take on the characteristics of submissive witnessing and metaphorical passage. The figures are passive and disengaged from the viewer; completely engulfed in their own thoughts. Their faces, along with aspects of their environment are often obscured through dramatic light, shadow, fabric or fog. Shrouds, veils, and smoke serve as representations of the states of mind that accompany transitions, such as failure, grief, death and memory. These ambiguous narratives provide a space for the viewer to project their own thoughts and fears into the work.
