Artist Statement

As I expand my horizons in shape and form, I thought it would be interesting to try some different types of forms this trimester due to distance learning. I Incorporated elements from 4 different animals to represent my personality traits. I used the head of a ram to represent my determination and drive. I used the body of a panther to represent my sense of adventure. I used the wings of a heron to represent my sense of independence. And finally, I used the tail of a deer to represent my ability to adapt to different situations. Piecing these animals together was just one part of the representation of my personality. I chose specific colors to express other aspects of my personality. Using dark cool tones to show my calm and easygoing nature, while also using warm bold tones to represent my fiery temper. Contrasting usual animals, it has a mix of dots and lines to tie the peace together.

This piece plays with the elements of Line and Form brought out by the incorporated  mix of lines and dots over the legs, wings, and antlers to create movement across my piece, making it flow together. The use of these patterns of lines and dots help balance out the piece, drawing the attention to each unique piece of each animal in this work. The Pattern and Repetition of the lines and dots are brought out using those same lines and dots on all surfaces of the animal, making it a focal point of the eye but not overpowering.

This project allowed me to learn how to use other mediums to plan projects in the future when I can work with clay again. Drawing is not something that is comfortable for me since I am usually more hands on with my art so this was a major change of pace. This allows for me to have a plan going into future projects though because I can draw them out in detail so I have a plan to follow. I have seen how I can still create my art through other means, while I am used to using clay for my art I have seen how I can still have a creative outlet. Now I have more project ideas that I can’t wait to use once I’m back in the studio!

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The process was as follows:

  - Create a list of my personality traits and animals that correspond with those traits
  - Choose animals to combine in the project
  - Create a rough sketch of what the project will look like
  - Gather materials-blank white paper, pencil, colored pencils, acrylic paints, & watercolors
  - Draw outline of the animal in pencil
  - Fill in outline with colored pencil
  - Add decals with acrylic paints
  - Use watercolors to create a background
  - Let dry
  - Make final touch-ups