Connections

How do we learn to connect and have relationships? For many of us even the idea can be daunting. What gets in our way? Are your secrets hidden, metaphorically, from sight in a dresser?  Abstract shapes refer to unspoken thoughts, while patterns suggest repeated behaviors. Is it altogether too easy to escape when there’s a ladder nearby? Would you prefer to forget it all and surrender onto the chair? 

The Penelopiad

Margaret Atwood’s book, “The Penelopiad” was the inspiration for these 40” x 30” mixed media pieces on paper. Penelope, wife of Odysseus, was left behind when her new husband sailed off to adventure the world. She found herself living in a strange land with no friends or family. As the story goes, she spent most of her time weaving a shroud, a strategy for keeping the many suitors away from the castle’s doorstep. She unraveled her work every night because, had she finished the weaving, she'd have had to marry one of the many suitors, who were there because they believed Odysseus would never return, and they wanted her (his) money.

Penelope’s situation, finding herself isolated in a relationship, resonates with me and, I’m sure, with many women

In The Mound

The Mound work refers to dark and challenging times

Excavations: Pulp Paper Painting

My journey begins when wet paper pulp is applied to a wet pulp paper base sheet. The material is unpredictable and hard to control. I layer colored pulp onto the white sheet of pulp underneath.The painting becomes an object of sorts when the layers of paper fuse into each other.

Situations

Silenced Women