Endings and beginnings, cycles of grief and joy – human instincts and emotions too basic or complex to articulate in a figurative manner – appear to me as abstract shapes. Smooth, swirling, undulating forms, most with harsh-faced or carefully textured accents can suggest more meaning and contain more enigma than the specifically representational. Through the use of organic shapes in stone, metal and mixed media recalling humans or animals without specifically simulating either, I seek to incorporate the passion, mystery and ambiguity that is central to human experience.
My first love was stone: all stones … then I became fascinated, as well, by metal casting processes; followed by involvement with mixed media … every durable matter available to best interpret essences of timely thoughts and emotions … and to help me in the stories I tell and the statements I make. Above all, I enjoy the challenge of using seemingly immutable materials to stir a viewer’s mind; and the fact that these extremely hard substances provide reassuring permanence.
In many of my sculptures, I have sought overall continuity of line. However, others display breaks, representing disrupted life cycles. Sections have been split or sliced open symbolizing trauma. Recent works include the addition of weeping bronze tears to accentuate the pain of separation from a loved one; an emotional crisis; an illness or physical disability wrenching enough to cause breakdown of spirit or body. These potentially distressing sculptures, nevertheless, are filled with hope. Close examination reveals that the separations are made in such a way that they may be rejoined. Life continues, although scarred, and the strengthened spirit resumes its cyclical journey. |
