David B. Smith Gallery

Artist Statement:

My work develops into a progression of evolving conversations; explores the contradictions and complexities of growing up in the American Midwest and living in today's society as an adult. My rendering of America is one of emotional turmoil and ambiguity. I meld childhood nostalgia and adult dread to produce works that resemble an absurd American theatre.

My love of this country and its pastimes are conflicted with my suspicion of cultural mythology. Through the reintroduction of American archetypes such as cowboys, cheerleaders, and football players, I construct a vernacular that oscillates between satire and homage, inducing the viewer to evaluate their political and cultural affiliations. I engage the audience to question how America's legendary status as liberator and military superpower relates to the debate that we are in a midst of precipitous decline and harrowing collapse.

The athletes are depicted in states of defeat and anguish amidst hollow landscapes, a fitting personification of America's increasingly self-imposed isolation from the international community. Both represent romanticized notions of American masculinity, symbolic agents of conquest and glory. I subvert these figures of strength, by depicting them in states of defeat, confusion, and humiliation.

The conclusion being hardship is part of life. However, one never loses hope of a promising and forgiving future. I strive to re-expose cultural idiosyncrasies that often become too familiar to recognize through the chaos. My artwork asks the viewer to submerge into the depths of their own minds and contemplate the images and ideas we, as Americans, export to the world.