|
Natalie Guerrieri
Artists
Statement
My most recent work consists of large scale paintings, done on un-stretched canvases tacked
to the wall. This allows for there to be a sense of movement and to give the feeling of skin or hide. The photograph has often
been an important element when creating my paintings. Not because I want to be a photographer, but because certain photos
attract me to them. For whatever reason, I like to use photos as a visual tool whether it is for inspiration, to interpret,
re-invent or to create an environment for the photo. Many of my works are life-size paintings, or small and intimate collages.
They both however incorporate a photograph of the subject or content. The large scale works are altered by scanning, enlarging
and incorporating it directly to the canvas so it can be painted. These works are a combination of processes and have been
integrated to create a whole mixed media painting. This body of work explores painting as collage, creating a struggle between
the mediums. In searching for a way to do this, I created work after work until there was a connection that felt like it was
integrated. The outcome is life-size mixed media work that uses a variety of materials, methods, and conventions creating
an intersection for the occurrence of meaning. Having realized this integration, I searched for a subject matter and found
it no further than my own family. I paid my parents a visit and raided my mothers photo albums and searched through many boxes
looking for family I knew and had never known. It was enlightening to listen to her tell me what she knew and did not know
of the family members I showed her. It was also intriguing to think of how I would interpret the known relatives versus the
unknown and the challenge it could present in the creation of works of art. For the content and narrative behind each photo
would have to determine the final outcome, the materials and technique following the real and fictitious narratives embedded
in the old photographs.
|
