Vulnerability Rooted in the Possibility of Healing
In this small body of work titled Vulnerability Rooted in the Possibility of Healing, an intuitive exploration of materiality and making is employed. The metaphor of gauze is healing; the materials, threads and stitching may resemble roots. The vulnerability of healing is embedded in the numerous layers of delicate gauze and may be understood as fine roots, growth or undergrowth beneath the surface. “Black Root” is a metaphor for undealt-with memories to be processed or discarded for renewal, enabling a sense of release, relief and new growth, similar to the aftermath of a veldfire. In addition, the term Black Root may also refer to a medicinal plant.
For me, the meaning of the work titled Uproot is about the uprooting of an emotional inner experience or old roots. Germination and roots may form after the transformation of abject decay or hurt that may have been dealt with. “Reroute” steers one towards a generative new direction or an ability to thrive after the vulnerable process of healing.
Roots grow in soil, hidden beneath the surface; therefore, I chose a monochrome palette. The work is embedded in the frame. Three-dimensional roots protrude and spill from the box frame, suggesting exposed roots searching for soil to grow. The front and back of the frame, along with the canvas, are part of the artwork itself.
