STATEMENT

MOMENTS INTO MOMENTOUS

My art transforms moments into the extraordinary, weaving a tapestry of experiences. Delighting in the structure of the grid, navigating the spectrum of color, and delving into the sacred, this is the essence of what I do.

As a conceptual artist, I use the metaphor of cross stitch to delve into the realms of the divine, the soul, and the intricate connections between souls. Through the creation of expansive cross-stitch pieces using yarn on debris netting, life-sized embroideries on window screens, photo installations, field images with resin stepping stones, and block printing on clothing, I explore the essence of humanity and the profound connection to the soul and between souls.

I am acutely aware of my body as an identifier and repository of pain, where the interior feels distinct from the exterior. It's like a fence, a surface that separates us, and the 'x' symbolizes a barrier, a fascination that consumes me.

My ambition is to engage diverse spaces—vast public areas, tranquil indoor settings, the intimate realm of clothing, and the Earth itself. Inspired by the bulb fields in Holland, where my roots lie, each flower, individually vibrant, gains magnified power when part of a larger field, transcending the sum of its parts. Similarly, inspired by cells and my studies in microbiology, I contemplate the mystery of life's energy, still elusive to scientists.

Art, to me, is an expression of the soul, forging connections between my soul and others. It holds significance, reaching towards the sublime, the divine, the personal, and the universal. Achieving great art requires persistence, and I firmly believe in its essential role for humanity.

Embroidery, typically associated with fragility and femininity, is a precious craft, valuing the connection to the hands that create it. It exists somewhat outside the realm of commercialism, characterized by slowness and a recorded touch.

My three years at the Barnes Museum's visual art program were formative. Regularly immersing ourselves in profound discussions about art, I developed an appreciation for formalism, Matisse and the weaving of history of ideas through objects traditionally labeled art, and household objects.

My journey into cross-stitch art began with motherhood. Seeking a medium for ideas that wouldn't alter when left unattended, I stumbled upon my grandmother's rejected embroidery floss after her passing. Transitioning from painting, I created cross-stitch embroideries of deceased flies, exploring the beauty in death within a medium typically associated with saccharine imagery. Reflecting on the separation and connection with my grandmother, I found inspiration in the stitches themselves, recognizing their intrinsic value.

Central to my artistic process are three core ideas: color, surface, and soul. These concepts intersect to explore space, barriers, boundaries, and the enigmatic force that is energy.

VISION, MISSION, PURPOSE

VISION: The vision is to establish connections with the soul, fostering a union among souls and creating sublime moments through artistic expression. I aim to produce meaningful art that prompts contemplation and raises essential questions about the human experience.

Questions:
What sensations define the essence of the soul?
How do we define our humanity in the present moment?
Explore the emotional dimensions of color.
Identify the factors that separate individuals and hinder connections, paying homage to the intricacies symbolized by the Goddess Arachne.

My primary goal is to initiate conversations that weave threads of energy between people, leaving them with a changed perspective after experiencing the art. I strive to bridge the gaps between individuals and facilitate a profound connection among humans through the power of art, recognizing its transformative potential.

MISSION: Grounded in the belief that art is an expression of the soul, my mission is to create art that resonates with our own souls and those of others. I emphasize the significance of art and its ability to touch the sublime, the divine, the personal, and the universal. I understand that achieving great art requires dedication, and I am committed to producing art that matters because humans need art.

Specifically focusing on visual art, I seek to engage with the public, capturing their imagination and making art a fundamental need for collective reflection and conversation. My mission extends to addressing individual and cultural needs through art, providing an escape from daily challenges and encouraging deep introspection.

PURPOSE: My purpose stems from the belief that art has the power to transcend the isolating aspects of loneliness and individualism. By recognizing the self and embracing inspired visions, we aim to reach a reality where art becomes a conduit to the divine. As a conceptual visual artist, I utilize color, surface, and soul to unveil barriers, explore space, and challenge boundaries. Art, in my perspective, serves as a catalyst for conversations that lead to genuine connections.

Furthermore, the act of creating art is intrinsically tied to personal happiness. The emotional fulfillment derived from making art drives my creative endeavors, reinforcing the idea that the purpose of art goes beyond its external impact—it also serves as a source of internal joy and fulfillment.