Artist Statement

In my work, I create biomorphic forms by fusing elements of the human body, animals and plants, using dots as building blocks. Through the use of dots I reflect on the unity amongst everything in the physical world, as all is constructed out of the same essential units, i.e., atoms and subatomic particles. In addition, using dots allows me to suggest the fluid and impermanent nature of everything in the physical world, despite how things appear solid and permanent to our eyes. Rather than being in a state of completion, the forms in my work exist in a state of continuous creation and dissolution. These ideas align with a long-term interest in Indian philosophy.

Recurring fractal patterns in nature have always interested me and my work incorporates the pattern that appears in neurons, tree branches and river networks as a major motif. I am interested in how the same patterns can occur, not only in a wide variety of forms, but also across the microscopic and macroscopic.

The motif of dots flowing across gaps between forms that appears throughout my work, is inspired by Michelangelo’s The Creation of Adam as well as photographs of nerve cells firing electrical impulses across the synaptic gap. In my use of color I aim for the vibrancy and luminosity of stained glass. Ballet and the graceful flow of bodies through space provides additional inspiration. My work contrasts structure and fluidity, with some areas of the paintings containing precisely applied dots while other areas show a looser and freer application and blending of paint.

Another major concept that I explore in my work is the idea of other realms. These can include the worlds glimpsed through a microscope or telescope. Additionally, I am intrigued by the concept of parallel universes from quantum physics. Recently, I have started making references to subjects in Renaissance painting that relate to the idea of other realms. One example is the subject of ascension/assumption and the depiction of beings rising up to a higher realm. Additionally, I have made reference to the subject of Olympus, the abode of the gods of ancient Greece. In addition to these Renaissance subjects, I have also found inspiration in the keyhole shaped doorway in Islamic architecture, seen during trips to Spain and Morocco, that represents a portal between the worldly and sacred realms.

Although my work is primarily abstract, the biomorphic dot forms suggest figuration and I present these figurative elements in various relationships to suggest narratives. I see my work as interactive as viewers interpret the imagery in vastly different ways according to their own perceptions and life experience.

I feel a connection with several artists who created abstract forms inspired by organic elements, including Eva Hesse, Lee Bontecou, Louise Bourgeois and Ruth Asawa.

My process begins with a pencil drawing. I then create a small study on paper using gouache and acrylics which I then finally expand into acrylic paintings on canvas. Additionally, I translate these ideas into sculpture using various materials that have included ping pong balls and cork.