One Day and a Wakeup
My work is not narrative in nature, instead the materiality of process and the vitality of material is the content of my work, which are based on my experiences in the military and the effects that serving has on our veterans and their families. Service members often count down the number of days left until they are able to return home. One Day and a Wake Up refers to the mental health crisis that service members and veterans are faced with. For many thier only goal is to get thorugh the pain they are faced with today and to be able to wake up tomorrow. The process of painting, developing varied systematic approaches of working, and responding to the painting is the driving factor within my work. Throughout these processes, the viewer will see the historical record of actions, and reactions, allowing for the “soul” of my piece to emerge. These actions, based on examining my past experiences allow for an outpour of energy. I am portraying this rawness and vitality in my work, as I respond to these experiences. To me, this idea is specific to each individual but can also go beyond; to be collectively understood. The chosen information is based on material that usually falls outside of the traditional fine art community. This material has the ability to transform its presence, appearing as something else while also being able to portray itself. The collaged papers, fabric and cardboard combined with adhesives and painted gestures presents as a very physical overwhelming image. The combination of materials begin to create its own counter balance in the pieces. It allows the viewer liberties on how or where to take the viewing of the pieces dependent on our shared experiences.
