statement (2024)

Finding the aesthetics of the fine-arts disciplines I studied more encumbering than invigorating, I tried to imagine a creative process that would feel freeing and serve as a statement in itself.

I ran my photos (mostly self-portraits) through a home printer whose cartridges I drained of ink. By adding tape to the paper before printer, I could prevent the ink from reaching the page. Then by adding more layers of tape, I found I could trap the ink in a liquid state. After more addition and subtraction, I arrived at this collection of pictures. Some of the work that was at the exhibition has been lost, but I believe the best of it is here. I also included some other work from around that time which in hindsight feels related.

Grief, chronic pain, groundlessness, religious trauma, feelings of alienation– I tried to tap into what felt the most personal and urgent, hoping that emotional energy could help me to break through creative and spiritual blockages. To articulate and maybe redeem my neuroses and pain.

Glad I made it through!