Search results for 'SERENA POTTER' at the museum of art

Artist Statement My early school report cards all said the same thing; “Serena day dreams too much”. They were such vivid imaginings that they scored onto my long-term memory. As I have matured I have become more conscious of my two selves, the one on the inside and the one on the outside. My art acts as a bridge between the two. Inside Out is an apt description of my work, reaching deep within to find that portion of my self thatdesires exposure and revelation. This show is comprised of pieces from several series, both oil paintings on canvas or birch panel, and charcoal drawings on cotton rag paper. Though they differ in medium and aesthetic, they are united in that they all tell a story. Certain imagery has begun to emerge and re-cycle through the work, eggs being one example. They represent those things that women nurture and protect; they are fragile but also embody a certain strength. The drawings employ themes of reflection, duality, private self versus public self and the pressure we feel to present a certain imposed standard of youth and perfection to the world. These drawings represent moments of self-appraisal where the viewer often takes on the roll of the mirror, creating a sense of voyeurism as if they have stepped into a private space. They, and the more tenebristic paintings included in the show, are notable for their use of chiaroscuro inspired by the dramatic cinematic lighting and compositional elements used in film noir. The paintings reflect the still, luminous light and close space of masters such as George De La Tour and Caravaggio. Then we have a series of paintings that contrast the vibrant hues and higher key palette reminiscent of the golden age American Illustrators (such as Norman Rockwell and J.C. Lyendecker), with a sardonic narrative, which places adults in childlike situations.