Artist Statement
Open
My series Open consists of small-scale paintings and charcoal drawings that depict
experiences of isolation from others, both physically and emotionally. I explore
feelings of familiarity and comfort alongside solitude and vastness. Through
landscapes, my paintings examine the connections of people and nature through
the interaction of figures in space. In other cases, the spaces depicted allow
the viewer to think about the absence of any figures. I paint and draw primarily
from photographs, capturing scenes from my time spent on my family’s farm in
rural Wisconsin. It’s at this farm that I feel a connection to the earth while
simultaneously experiencing a disconnect from other people.
The earthy and overcast color choices in the paintings are informed by the
environment, as well as the contemplative and emotional tone of separation from
others. The idea of having no choice but to connect with the land and oneself
drove a loose handling of paint and suggestive mark-making, giving the paintings
space to hold the subtleties of memory alongside the energy of life. The drawings
have become more physical and intuitive than the paintings, allowing my hand to
more directly process and document the connection that I have with the
outdoors. Through this series, I explore the personal catharsis created by spending time with my memories and emotions, while reaching out to anyone who can find
comfort in the shared experience of isolation.
