I've cultivated a passion for pursuing opportunities, even though my success rate has been modest. Engaging in this process has evolved into a meaningful hobby for me. Here are my current reflections as I contemplate my work for MFA applications:
In the realm of artistic creation, my journey is a deliberate and dynamic exploration, shaped by historical, cultural, and societal influences. Through careful choices of materials, thematic explorations, and collaborative projects, I navigate the complexities of identity and heritage, fostering a meaningful dialogue within broader historical and societal contexts. Carved marks and sculpted forms become conscious expressions, serving as a conduit for connecting with the profound narratives of our collective past and the unfolding tapestry of our shared present.
In my recent artistic pursuits, I endeavor to capture the profound interconnection between towering mountain peaks and the dynamic flow of water below. This series of work serves as a poignant reminder of the intricate relationships within the natural world, emphasizing the inherent intertwining of the land and its elements. As a resident of Treaty Seven territory, I grapple with shaping my identity as a third-generation settler from Western and Eastern Europe. Navigating through various Eurocentric identities, I've sensed a detachment from imposed values, leading me to ground my art in the concept of deep time. By utilizing clay to depict mountains, I aim to anchor my work in the historical narrative of the land.
Mindful of issues related to appropriation, my artistic endeavors seek to pay homage to the rich cultural traditions that have historically communicated narratives through ceramics. This profound connection to culture and community extends to my relationship with Banff National Park, where the landscape itself becomes an integral aspect of my identity. The park, managed with the aspiration of global environmental leadership, not only serves as a muse but also inspires a vision for a sustainable future. My artistic expressions, influenced by the distinctive marks of mountains and water within this remarkable terrain, reflect a deep reverence for nature and an invitation for viewers to contemplate the kind of world we collectively envision.
Inspired by the transformative power of National Parks and drawing from Jenny Odell's insightful exploration of the natural world, my work intertwines the environment with personal and collective identity. This alignment extends to the exploration of my bioregion, reflecting a broader understanding of the interconnectedness between environment, identity, and heritage—a reflection of the practices observed in Banff National Park.
Parallel to Odell's insights, I acknowledge the co-production of capitalism, colonialist thinking, loneliness, and abusive stances in both environmental and societal contexts. The 'Mountains Meet Water' series, adorned with semi-precious and crystal stones, serves as a visual narrative, encapsulating a profound reverence for nature and addressing the implications of resource extraction and materialism within the intricate interweaving of human and environmental stories.
Embracing Jeremy Nobel's emphasis on curiosity, connection, and creativity to combat loneliness, my artistic journey becomes a catalyst for fostering connections and addressing societal challenges. Employing a multidisciplinary approach, I aim to reshape cultural narratives through storytelling and community engagement, fostering inclusivity and connection to local knowledge.
Inspired by Mierle Uke's concept of "My work is the work," I actively challenge prevailing notions of progress within cultural organizations, fostering change from within. Acknowledging my privilege in residing in a National Park, I recognize a responsibility to contribute to the restoration of biological and cultural ecosystems. Through intentional engagement with these influences, my work aspires to contribute to social change, dismantling exploitative structures, and fostering a sense of community.
