Art Education Emphasis
I have an ongoing
interest in the complex and unique nature of the human being. This is why I
include people in my art. I want my subjects to tell their story or make a
statement about human nature and the human condition.
An example of this concept is
my relief print titled, "Life of a College Student." In this
woodblock, a Buddha-like figure sits under a cave of abstract shapes while
lines seep out from a chaotic mess above. I have sought to intensify the
emotive quality of this work, allowing viewers to insert themselves into the
Buddha’s place as they reflect on the image as a whole. The Buddha is
relatively genderless and seems to echo a sense of human spirituality. The
colors are intended to heighten the emotions from the piece and strengthen its
mysticism.
Another example of
this is the letterpress print, "Self-Portrait." In this
image, an intricate mass of swirls and abstract shapes surrounds the girl's
face and asks the question of whether she is being drawn into the mass or
emerging from it. The abstract lines and shapes give the image an organic,
chaotic feel and contrast with the more delicate lines and soft gradient in her
face. This image is intended to be thought provoking and invite its viewer to
ponder upon the human psyche and emotion.
I have been influenced by Amy Elkins, a
contemporary photographer who specializes in portraiture. She uses
psychological elements to disclose her subjects' personal life and reference
social culture and gender issues. I love how she invites the viewer to develop
a more intimate relationship with the person in the photo than would be
possible otherwise, granting the viewer access to their life. Each person
depicted tells a different story and makes an emotional connection with the
viewer. It is this emotional connection I hope to create.
As I move forward, I want to be able
to better utilize the human image in my artwork. I would like to delve into
deeper concepts concerning humankind, psychology, anthropology, and make better
use of storytelling. I think studying Art Education will help me grow as an
artist and allow me to share my love of art with others and help facilitate
creativity in them. As an Art Education major, I believe I can build upon and
nurture my understanding of human nature and the human condition.
