Artist Statement

Living in a time when technology allows us to instantly transmit infinite amounts of information, it seems that every aspect of the world around us can be specifically identified, categorized, defined and owned. The methods we rely upon to communicate and navigate through the constant influx of information we encounter on a daily basis fascinate me. As they exist to simplify this information; I am often influenced by visual elements, numbering systems and colors from such things as: atlases, sattelite imagery, topographical maps, scientific diagrams, and language.

I utilize silver in my work as a measuring device to contrast other elements with varying hierarchies of cultural value. Traditionally, silver has been used as a means of currency, ornament, and self-adornment. Existing as a material commodity, it represents a trade value as well as an object of status and desire. Its value as a precious metal has been assigned to it in relation to the culture that surrounds and adopts it as a standard of value.

By using silver to contain information, or as a connector for materials of less inherent worth, the viewer is encouraged to examine the intrinsic value present in these objects that do not carry such a direct association with an economic value.

While reflecting on current events and the history of object and place, I hope to raise the viewer’s awareness of how we as individuals place value on various objects and elements in our lives.