Since I can remember, I have been a collector. My pockets, purses, and car cup holders inevitably fill up with the rocks, twigs, shells, sea glass, bits of paper, pieces of cloth, and rusted metal scraps that catch my eye throughout the day. I have never searched these things out, rather, the treasures have always seemed to choose me. I have no rhyme or reason for what I pick up when- I merely trust my instincts. Until recently, after my snatching them up, these wonderful trinkets of the world merely became part of my growing collection, stored in boxes and piles and bowls- their beauty hidden in the masses once again.
This work is a way for me to methodically and systematically display my past, present, and future collection. Using found button bags, I am able to create small, self-contained collages that utilize my finds and put them on display as beautiful specimens worth admiring and investigating. The bags not only satisfy my need for containment and organization, but force the viewer to take the time to lean in and take a closer look at the items that, at one time, caused me to pause in appreciation and respect.
I am also beginning an investigation of plastic wrap as an art medium. By layering plastic wrap, paint, and paper, a certain delicate and impressionistic image appears. I have always had a difficult time being abstract and this method not only forces abstraction, but makes it an accessible and fun way for me to achieve it. At this point, I have just begun my investigation and process-making but I plan on looking into light’s effects on these “paintings”.