Personal Statement of Max Dugaw June 2007 |
My work is extremely visceral. The way my hands receive the information, requires me to work rapidly and without editing the transfer of thought to paper. I work in a traditional method of collage. The materials derive from refined origins, fine handmade Japanese papers, indigenous plants, and cross cultural symbols of life. All on a substrate of 1114 lb. paper. The process reveals a dichotomy that instinctively organizes the organic with the abstract. This is achieved in the overall composition with the asymmetry of nature and the symmetry of human artifact. Be it archetypal, symbolic, alchemist, or purely geometric. These effects are contained within the traditional landscape mode. Cross cultural information is contained in anthropological, archeological, and metaphysical codes, i.e. the Aboriginal tribes have a method of keeping track of time according to day counts marked within a circle. I accept, welcome, and, therefore, include the imposition of the human elements. The spheres or circular movements in some of my work are also applicable to my universal artistic intentions. The circles are symbolic of no beginning and no end to the journey I choose to follow. Confidingly, these quintessential influences are my continuous guides. I consider these works to be from a higher place via intentional positivism. A mindset that encompasses all the energy around me. I am always joyful in my work. That is the channel that elevates the quality of my work and my being. It is a spiritual process that unifies my artistic vow and my humanistic devotion. I hope this is conveyed to you in my art. |