...and then there was light.....

Artist Statement:
Like Nature, we build new layers on top of the old, our past hidden but very much a product of who we are.  We start our lives out as seeds that break free and begin to grow and develop.  Even as a child there are instances of trial and error, successes and failures.  Our growth may be stunted because we have been overshadowed by someone or something.  Nevertheless, we continue to grow and thrive from our environments and continue to build layer upon layer, adding to our personality and character.  Like nature, we can cover up the past, build on top of it and continually start a new beginning.

Departure Thoughts:
Produce (3) sculptural forms, related at least in theory to my drawings, approximately 4' in height
Explore conceptual/visual/aesthetic way of connecting nature to human life
Construct forms from wood and plant life, experimenting with ivy

• Nature is not perfect, neither are we
• As humans we are physically natural but alter ourselves through manmade practices
• It is human practice to alter nature through manmade techniques and devices
• Both humans and nature are altered as a result of our/its experiences
• Both humans and nature adapt and change to their environments (constant basis)

Wood/Forest Symbolism Research
 Forests are the abode of the nature spirits.  Forests are a refuge from danger as well as a source of dangerous wild animals.  Forests are mysterious and constantly changing.  5th anniversary gift = wood; symbolizes a relationship that has become solid and long-lasting and represents the growing strength of the bond.

 Ivy Symbolism Research
 Symbol of vibrancy (bright green hue).  Celtic druids wove sprigs of ivy into necklaces to represent clarity of thought and celebrate vitality of nature.  Corresponding symbolism comes from its tendency to interweave in growth, reflecting connections and friendships, example of twists and turns relationships take.  Ivy also reflects long-lasting connections and bonds and has the ability to grow in challenging environments.  Ivy is incredibly durable and can withstand harsh conditions, for these reasons it is also a symbol of survival and determination.  Ivy seems to be virtually indestructible and will return after suffering damage, this is an example of human spirit and strength that we all have to carry on regardless of how severe our setbacks have been.  Ivy often grows in a spiral form, especially when it climbs, which relates to its symbolism of consciousness, development, expansion and rebirth.  Ivy with 5-pointed leaves becomes a symbol of protection.  Other symbolic meanings are: growth, renewal, connection, friendship, opportunity, fidelity, eternity.

Other Thoughts:
**The "pods" from my drawings are a form that has shown up now and again in my work.  It is a form that I would like to further explore, it feels harmonious and secure to me, like a safe haven from the elements.  It also closely relates to nature, seeds, organic forms, easily suggests/reflects growth and is also a form which is open to the audience's interpretation.

It is amazing and important to me that we, as human beings, come from so many different backgrounds and walks of life and although everyone is different we all share a common link.  A link of being presented with obstacles and challenges that we must overcome or be overshadowed by.  Like the determination of ivy in the worst of circumstances we will find a way to push through and come out on top...or at least out of the mud...  It doesn't matter how bad things have been in the past, we can always hold hope in our hearts and put our best foot forward.  This body of work is important to me in that, as humanity we all share this bond on some level, and more importantly it is something that has a personal thread for me and is well worthy of being explored.




**Images of my drawings/sketches will soon follow.