Artist talk: October 22, 1pm
Artist statement and biography:
I am a visual artist based in Peterborough, Ontario. I received my BFA from NSCAD University in Halifax with a major in jewellery and metalsmithing. Recently I’ve been working in sculpture and installation, with a focus on re-imagining objects in the domestic sphere. I have exhibited in solo and group exhibitions throughout Canada and in the United States. I have recently exhibited at Xpace Cultural Centre, Artspace Artist-Run Centre and Y+ Contemporary.
In my work I create abstracted representations of everyday objects to remove literal associations and to question our familiarity with the things that surround us. I am also interested in the associations of value of the handmade versus the mass-produced. As an emerging sculptor, I explore various techniques of craftsmanship and employ different techniques in each body of work. By presenting the familiar in unfamiliar ways and juxtaposing mass-produced objects with handcrafted pieces and embellishments, I explore the associations that people have with various craft techniques and materials. Media I have used include needlepoint, woodwork, upholstery, ceramics and stained glass.
Some of my artistic influences include artists Louise Bourgeois, Kiki Smith, Eva Hesse and David Altmejd.
Residency:
“I plan to explore a new medium in my work during the period of the residency. In July I will be taking a course in sculptural papermaking at Paperhouse Studio in Toronto. I want to take the skills and techniques I learn in the course and apply them to my sculpture practice. I plan to create a large-scale modular installation and want to take the time to learn how to use paper as a sculptural medium. I plan to explore mold forming, and fabrication techniques using different kinds of papers. I also want to examine different suspension techniques. I am drawn to paper as it is a versatile material that can be manipulated in many different ways to create various effects. It can be hard and angular or soft and organic. I can also play with weight and lightness. Having the time to experiment with a new material is very exciting and I look forward to the opportunity.
I am interested in the residency as a space of inspiration and encouragement in my practice. I look forward to being in a space where I am surrounded by great art and where I can interact with the public, other artists and gallery staff on a regular basis.”