Artist Statement
Artist Statement
I create found object assemblages by re-using discarded items. I find cast-offs along railroad tracks, at construction dumps, flea markets, thrift shops; wherever they may lay. Not all that I find will be useful. Only those that speak to me on a subliminal level will be selected. It is a fortuitous mixture of serendipity and intuition.
My overall concept is since all matter is energy, inanimate objects as well as animate life forms, are destined to lead many lives and serve many purposes. With encouragement the found object can throw aside its past to re-invent itself on a different plane of existence. When dissimilar items are grouped together, old individual contexts disappear adding to new conversations of thought.
My work process begins in combining contrasting but complimentary materials; type, texture, color, shape and other design elements. I then mold the pieces into a cohesive composition. In the beginning, I try to free my mind of any preconceived ideas of meaningfulness. The symbolism takes its own form and eventually leads me to a natural conclusion. Some assemblages are philosophical or spiritual in nature. Some are simply the whimsical results of mind play. Each assemblage is as unique as the material I use. For that reason none can be truly duplicated.
My hopeful goal is to communicate this simple message: Everything and everyone deserves a second look; a second chance. Perhaps together we will begin to see our surroundings and each other with new eyes. Awareness is the first step of change.