LIVES OF A CELL

My work is inspired by science and nature. Ironically, I hated Biology in school, but now, it is the source I draw from most frequently.  Images of microscopic cellular organisms, such as algae and paramecia, intrigue me.  They are simple and elegant, yet at the same time, complex. Cell shapes and their hair-like extensions (flagella & cilia), convinced me to experiment with three-dimensional forms.  My goal is not to make a replica, but to use the original as a starting point.  As I work and face aesthetic and technical decisions, the sculpture takes on a life of its own.  Color choices are subjective,I use combinations that feel right.  Then, I add detail and texture, highlighting with beads, wire, embroidery and crochet, striving to do justice to the visual complexity and beauty of these organisms.
        

As I was doing my research, the health care debate raged on and the H1N1 virus pandemic occurred.  What better subject matter to explore than viruses and bacteria?  And so, “Viral Cocktail” and “Bacteriology” were born.  I chose monochromatic tones for these embroideries to highlight their beautiful calligraphic forms, and to provide a counterbalance to the brightly colored sculpture in the show.   “Under My Skin”, a work in progress, is the newest piece.  Here, I am choosing to focus close in on very small sections of bodily cells that I find particularly beautiful.   With these embroidered pieces, I am revisiting one of my favorite themes – addressing the common notion of “women’s work” by using traditional techniques to express contemporary themes.  The use of table linens as my stitching surfaces directly speaks to this.