[Working] Artist Statement

Bloops discusses ideas of social categorization through lively iterations of obscure bodies which subtly relate to viewers in terms of form, gesture, scale, and surface. The sculptural forms reference the internal and external body, while eluding the categorization which our culture constantly strives to define. They evade the physical guidelines that culture sets on bodies, thus protecting them from stereotyping. They exist in this naïve domain and welcome the viewer in for a moment in curious yet playful accompaniment. They have a visual language of their own, yet one which feels oddly familiar. 

The bloops are not an overtly grotesque iteration of bodies. The “abject” qualities they possess are aestheticized in a way that adds a sense of playfulness to their oddity. Their lumps are rounded in an endearing way. The colors draw on bodily pigments like skin tones, bruises, or organs but are shifted towards more lighthearted hues. The human-scale relationship of the sculptures calls the viewer to question the similarities or differences they may have to their own bodies. Their qualities draw from the body, but utilize cuteness and playfulness as a vehicle to discuss larger, more uncomfortable topics. 

My aim is for the viewer to consider their place within the uncomfortable nature of social categorization of bodily standards, while not adding to the negativity that often surrounds it. My creative project utilizes humor and playful absurdity as a surrogate for conflict. Creating a language of an unknown and helping the viewer be comfortable in this, I am hoping they can walk away feeling more empathetic and shameless towards themselves and those around them.