Artist Statement
The future, I believe, is a place where philosophical thinking and artistic creativity will be crucial to moving society forward. As we approach a more automated era, it is essential to keep the integrity of academic inquiry and processing. This is something that only humans can do. Keeping this philosophical view keeps me honest in my work.
My work is informed by the motifs and symbols I am drawn to within my research in theory and philosophy. Even though I am conscious of meaning while I am creating, there is an element of impulse that pushes my intent. My work reveals this process of discovery, including my moments of contemplation. All of what goes into a work is important to be seen, I think. Process, too, is a complete work in its own right.
Typically, my work plays on the role of ornament and the tension between minimalist and ornate aesthetics. Liminality and longing pervade the spaces I explore, which center around Sicilian heritage, queer theory, and women’s work. I’m drawn to the signifiers of these cultures as they emerge in the modern urban setting I live in, and am interested in the dialog that might arise out of their intersection.
At the same time, my work reflects my need to impulsively grab onto a moment or object or space that I cannot physically carry with me – something I can piece together for future analysis or negotiate what I had been thinking. This holds true whether I am shooting, writing or sculpting.
Photography was my first form of collecting moments. It’s difficult for me to pinpoint why I am fixated on things. It’s subconscious.