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Artist Statement
In my work I focus primarily on the interplay of paint and fabric and how combining these can elevate a painting. When I started out working with quilt patterns the intent was to spur a conversation with the viewer: “Why is the manifestation of this pattern in fabric viewed as a craft when the same pattern presented with oil or acrylic paint transformed into fine art?” This is still a major theme in my work. More recently I focused on adding fabric back into paintings. In a recent piece titled Remnant, I created an artwork by completely painting the canvas and then cutting it open–seemingly destroying the piece–”mending” it through the addition of fabric, rendering it whole.
The primary inspiration for my work and launching pad for other artistic endeavors is quilt patterns. I believe quilts are undervalued. They are perceived as mundane, minimally achieving status as artwork for most observers. The utilitarian nature of quilts–they are supposed to be used, damaged, and well-worn–are the chief consideration in most peoples’ minds. Although hours are creating these artworks, we rarely deem them worthy enough to hang on a wall. Beautiful quilts are not rarefied; a quilt is made to be loved. Their destiny is to reflect the beautiful, messy experiences of everyday life.