COMMON BOOKS OF SENSE
This series of Clay Poems, made during a residency at Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art in Dundee, Scotland, 2002-03, are layered with signs, colors and textures to describe rich cultures imbedded in significant landscapes. Cultural treasures from the cross currents of mixing civilizations throughout the past millennium on the European/East Asian continent are the specific inspiration for this work. Medieval manuscript illuminations, ancient Islamic Art, Byzantine icons and 21st century bombing targets have influenced the making of this work. Living and working in Dundee during six months of 2002/2003 decidedly influenced my personal understanding of history as it made itself during the 10-12th centuries and again today. Scottish historical remnants from that time period have grounded an understanding of the ageless mass movements of peoples across the continent. All along the routes, back and forth, individuals and civilizations have left traces of their culture in artifacts we admire and learn from today. Along with living in Dundee, visits to other European countries, particularly Poland during this short period, have helped me grasp the recurrent theme of cultures thriving, warring, mingling and adapting. These works are witness to the human condition in these timeless times. |
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