Artist Statement

I used various handsewing methods with the challenge of turning feminine fabric into a masculine piece.  I chose feminine patterned fabric: lace, sequins and florals.  I sewed cone shaped pieces with shaped wire inside to give the fabric free standing structure.  I chose to make pointy pieces and sew them together because sharp edges are typically viewed as masculine.  I attached them in a semi radial fashion to somewhat resemble a sun.  Symbolically, the sun is considered to be masculine while the moon is feminine (which is why I also added gray fabrics)

Artist Statement

I experimented with paper mache pulp by dissolving shredded 1-ply toilet paper in water, then wringing it out and adding glue and coloring until it had a clay-like consistency.  I sculpted the mixture into a wave, then glued pebbles to an aluminum sheet beside it to make a beach.  I put pieces of trash and small animal figurines throughout then painted the ocean blue.  This piece symbolizes to me the destruction we cause on the environment as humans.

Artist Statement:

For my final piece I aimed to combine different objects in a way that maked them look as if they have been found in a hundred or so years.  I hand sewed clothing and toys into a child's suitcase, then used a combination of cocoa powder, baking powder, dirt, water and hairspray to make the items look aged.  I chose to use children's belongings because I am a child caretaker and they are a big part of my life.  At times I also still feel like a child, so this piece represents myself on the inside.  Every object I used is a pop culture reference that is relevant today.  At the end I planted a flower in the suitcase to represent newness and change.  As the COVID-19 pandemic looms over our heads, I have lost my childcare job for the foreseeable future while they self isolate.  This piece symbolizes to me the damage this virus has done to my work and social life.  The flower symbolizes a time for self reflection and better understanding myself.