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I communicate visually – my camera is my pencil. I have created many bodies of work in my life that would not be considered political. I now find my passions starting to boil when I read the morning paper, watch or listen to the news. We are living in a time where voices and activities that used to be considered “fringe” are now mainstream. Many social, ethnic and class inequities are becoming more and more evident. Many are losing their lives for their religious beliefs or the color of their skin.
Why now? What has caused the proliferation of racist attacks? Who is to blame? These questions I’m sure can spark heated debate, even amongst family and friends.
What is the role of the artist in our current climate? Is there such a thing as proprietary subject matter? Must one be a victim in order to address certain issues? Can a man fight for woman’s equal rights? Can a Jewish or Christian individual support Muslim religious expression? Can racism directed at one group be addressed by a member of another?
I have opinions but not answers to these questions. I find I am no longer able to continue my art making “ as usual” in these unsettled times. I’m moved to start addressing some of these issues and inequities with my work.
With this exhibition I have focused on photographing racist objects, but rather than documenting them, I choose to photograph them in the negative, which is what they represent. Why have these objects graced the kitchens, shelves and tables of so many households? Why are they still being made? In thinking about racism and what contributes to stereotypes, these objects have certainly played a role. By bringing attention to the “negative” stereotypes they represent I hope my photographs can open a dialog for both the viewer and myself about what some of the contributing factors that form the despicable attitudes I see expressed in our society today.
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