Reconfigure was on view at the Kruk Gallery, University of Wisconsin Superior, from November 2018 - January 2019.

Reconfigure: (v). to rearrange (something) into an altered form, figure, shape, or layout : to configure(something) again or in a new way

My artwork is inspired by natural history, in particular the process of collecting, classifying and displaying public and personal specimen collections. My artmaking is fueled by philosophy: a desire to pose questions about human nature and existence; a desire to find meaning and joy in simple things.

From these two platforms, I explore ways to impose unexpected connections between human and animal, blurring the lines between observer and the observed. The human figure is pinned in a specimen drawer, an insect’s framework includes human anatomy, human and animal details are inventoried on toe tags. The entanglement can disrupt what is known and therefore open a door to curiosity and reflection.

My exploration stems from questions of why we collect and what deeper emotions or intentions are masked in the process. While a cataloguing of artifacts can increase understanding of both the wider world and our own physiology, it can also be a diversion from aging and mortality, an attempt to cheat time under the pretext of preservation. In a different light, it can be a way to augment wonder - the process of amassing natural specimens becomes a method for accumulating memories. Research has led me back in time to 16th and 17th century curiosity cabinets, as well as to their successors, the natural history museums of modern day. I am curious about the humanness of the act of collecting. I want to subject humans and beasts to equal scrutiny, control and wonder to reveal the many layers of our relationship to the natural world and to ourselves.

Both inspiration and actual content is derived from natural history illustrations, old medical drawings and text, and from my own photographs and observational drawings. Using collage and piece-specific materials such as entomology pins and embroidery, I make two- and three-dimensional works that provide an interactive experience. Seen from afar the installation is a coherent assembly of parts designed to draw in the viewer. Up close, details aim to inspire a sense of wonder.

Reconfigure was made possible in part by a Career Development Grant from Arrowhead Regional Arts Council.

More images of each piece can be found under the Artwork heading. To see a video about the exhibit by The Slice, visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3bO8KK9XEf4.