Artist Statement
The paintings depict teapots and other kitchenware surrounded by floating
kitchen utensils such as spoons and knives.
Digital image-transfers are synthesized with ink and paint. The ink is
applied in the form of washes or text. The writing is a combination of
factual information and free association. A dialogue between image and
text is created through a complex layering process. For example, the text
may describe the history of herbal teas such as chamomile and its medicinal
usage and value. Images of tea spoons, sifters, teapots etc. are then
collaged/painted over the written words. The shapes of these objects are
echoed in an abstracted way over the entire painting to achieve a successful
synthesis of image and text.
Some paintings depict spontaneous arrangements of utensils while others
focus on specific object relationships such as spoons leaning against
each other, 'spooning' or two knives facing each other 'eye to eye'. The
teapot series focuses on teapots in unique and sometimes humorous shapes
and poses. The GMO paintings show fruit and vegetables surrounded by floating
DNA strands, syringes, Petri dished, etc. Diagrams show the process of
plant DNA extraction and modification thereby commenting on the increasing
research and production of genetically modified organisms.
Curriculum Vitae
I was born in Frankfurt Germany in 1975. After receiving my Abitur at the
Bettina Gymnasium in 1995, I left Germany to continue my education at Sonoma
State University in Rohnert Park, California. In 1997 I was awarded a Scholarship
in recognition of Outstanding Achievement and Academic Excellence. After completing
my undergraduate degree in Fine Arts in 1998, I attended a residency at the
Internationale Sommerakademie fuer Bildende Kunst in Wolfenbuettel under the
guidance and influence of visiting artist Marie-Jo Lafontaine.
Continuing my education, I received a Post Baccalaureate Degree from the San
Francisco Art Institute in 1999 and completed my Master of Fine Arts Degree
at the California College of the Arts (former CCAC) in 2001.
