Time

In this series I was exploring my memory of a traumatic event. The process of creating artwork while in the midst of the memory being made. Throughout my life I’ve had a spark of recalling an event at random. My specific brain chemistry loves to identify synchronicity. Often silly minutiae spark a profound deja vu. A crumpled foil bag of chips takes on the role of a marker representing that I am on the correct path in life. When these synapses fire this way I am reassured that with the things and people involved everything will be OK.

The idea of memory is explored on the periphery of the work. Most of the connections that I have made during the creation of this work are recognized looking back at the series.

“Empty” is a still life photographic series created during a definitive time in American history. It was begun in sync with the emergence of the Covid-19 global pandemic. At the time I was living in the epicenter of The United States outbreak. This new series began at random but as it progressed milestones (i.e. shoot days, painting days, etc) began to coincide with developments in dealing with the trauma surrounding its beginning. 

The Covid-19 pandemic hit the USA while I was living in Queens, NY. The world outside my one bedroom apartment was a blaze with viral uncertainty. I retreated inwards. Every surface hot with threat, electrified with the fear of sickness and transmission. My home became a fortification against the unseen. The days became strange markers of coping routines. Wake up, don't get dressed for the day, pajamas are fine, get comfortable, grasp information on how to stay safe, talk to family on the phone, cocktails at 5, dinner, snacks, sweets... I began making the series that you are seeing as a response to the retreat into pattern.