Talisman
I have always been drawn to art’s ability to hold space and provide a sense of fortification. My practice began as therapy, a place where I could create tiny universes and feel a sense of control; the ability to choose how chaos and order are balanced.
Once I started exhibiting larger numbers of paintings, I became keenly aware of the energy vacuum that resulted in my studio when I would bring them to the gallery. I underestimated how much I had made them like a cacoon around me, to hold me, to make me feel safe and hopeful and inspired. This collection, Talisman, began when this effect became so acute that it resulted in a resurgence of mental health crisis states. With my studio emptied, I created these works with the sole intent of providing, in as focused a way as possible, a presence that would bring me a sense of strength and vision and solace.
Once I started exhibiting larger numbers of paintings, I became keenly aware of the energy vacuum that resulted in my studio when I would bring them to the gallery. I underestimated how much I had made them like a cacoon around me, to hold me, to make me feel safe and hopeful and inspired. This collection, Talisman, began when this effect became so acute that it resulted in a resurgence of mental health crisis states. With my studio emptied, I created these works with the sole intent of providing, in as focused a way as possible, a presence that would bring me a sense of strength and vision and solace.
"Talisman"
2020
oil on canvas
16"x16"
