Sculpted Paintings

Muscle Memory 2024
Ink, rust, graphite, charcoal, chalk & paper pulp on found canvas
10x12x4


These recent sculpted paintings are a part of a growing series under the theme “Dirty Rainbow”, that are reminiscent of childhood trauma. These objects have been metaphorically run over and abandoned to endure the elements with no comfort other than receding into a dissociative state. The fabric is compulsively folded sprayed with liquid starch, refolded again, and the cycle starts over. I began working on these in 2021 while I was trying to pry myself out of a deep hole of depression and self doubt. Each sculpted painting is my version of a contemporary journaling process as a trauma informed artist-educator. I use common materials like sidewalk chalk and repurposed canvas that I stockpile from the thrift store across the street from my apartment. My mobility is quite limited, so this is a convenient, eco friendly and conceptually consistent motivator for trying to manage my way outside.

Each piece, once filled with beautiful potential and perfection, have been steamrolled over and left to fend for themselves. Broken down detritus, shredded children's books and junk mail, begin to fill the underbelly with the hope of a new life. Although, the trauma is never forgotten. It lives in the folds and crevices of the fabric and in the pigment pressed into the fibers at a molecular level. To evolve is a continuous process of acceptance and letting go. Each sculpted painting represents a cycle of emotional death and spiritual rebirth.