ARTIST STATEMENT: THE SOUND OF ART-MAKING
The sound of music in my studio orchestrates how my brush combines glue and acrylics into unique collage paintings of still lifes. Music is an inspiration that allows ideas to flow into the final work.
I like to think that I am not just another cut and paste collage artist. My uncommon approach is that I title my works first. It usually begins with a word that names an object. I search for phrases which use that word and which speaks to me in a quirky or whimsical way. Each painting is a new discovery and I enjoy the process of illustrating the unknown. I pick out my objects and may need to invent an object, or I may need to design a new relationship among objects when I set up these still lifes. They are there to tell the story of the title in distinctive ways.
I photograph all of the still lifes in a darkened room with a spotlight. I am able to crop the photo on the computer and turn the orientation so that the objects and table top are set at a slant. Their musical energy, so to speak, escapes for all to hear, instead of being trapped in an upright position. I am so passionate about these spirited still lifes.
Having developed my technique over several years, I follow a basic process for every piece so that I do not have to think very much about what to do next. I like to show how my internal rhythm affects collaging and painting; and how creating the best beat for each part of the work is instrumental in successful art-making. And so, my title and process direct me. How do I know when the collage painting is finished? When my mind hears the painting play a lively finale.
