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Artist Statement

I use my work as a type of journaling throughout life and consequently it has changed, sometimes dramatically, over the years. I feel that growth and change are essential for spiritual evolution, no 'ifs' or 'buts.' The work you see here spans a period of several years and numerous exhibits, both solo and group.

My work is representative of a search to find those unique combinations of elements that undoubtedly redefine moments, places, lives, and ideas. By using color, line, shape and the written word I am trying to convey a human reaction to the external world and then redefine that reaction in relation to new data that is created through the artistic process. Our need for art, both as a society and as individuals, is an expression of our constant searching for a sense of wholeness which will restore order once again to our chaotic state .

In the pieces which deal primarily with pattern I have literally taken pattern pieces from those my mother used to make my clothes as I was growing up. These form the underlying foundation and then I have built the pieces up from there using magazines, tissue, pastel, paint, ribbon, and words. Although heartfelt, I think these works are playful and expressive of a running commentary about the culture I see around me. 

The journal pieces deal with nature and contemplation of our place within it. I have used objects my dog has found on walks in the woods, i.e., lost jewelry, nails, tools, bones. Here, ordinary objects have been elevated to an almost religious or sacred height. It amazes me how easily my dog uncovers these foreign objects in nature, as if she knows instinctually that they belong to another story altogether. These pieces are about stillness and awe.

In the dooryard pieces I have used old key plates and light switch covers in which there is always an empty hole in the center. This signifies mortality and the inevitability of death. My intent was to convey this ever present reality in harmony, as natural as the seasons always following one another in order without deviation. They were meant to be works of consolation. 

The realistic pieces are interpretive and self-explanatory.

Copyright © 2001-2007 Laura Joseph. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any content, publications, pictures or images, in whole or part, without prior express written consent of Laura Joseph is strictly prohibited. The accuracy and currency of content is not guaranteed.