Schematic Portraiture, 2016-17
My diagram-focused work has developed from family trees to literal 'mind-maps' and now to schematic portraiture. In an attempt to create an honest portrait displaying the individual from their own perspective without outside judgement or visual stereotyping, this 150cm x 250cm drawing describes one individual in a collection of organised quotes from a conversation with myself.
In creating this work I aim to provide a safe space for open communication on an individual basis and, at the same time, produce works that lead my viewers to question how well they really know people, how they judge and how open they are to connecting with others.
In creating this work I aim to provide a safe space for open communication on an individual basis and, at the same time, produce works that lead my viewers to question how well they really know people, how they judge and how open they are to connecting with others.
Process:
1.Record a conversation
2.Transcribe and Analyse recording content into themes
3.Sketch rough maps creating connections
4.Pencil final maps, ink in with fine liners
5.Extract and Write anecdotes, arrange onto work
6.Sew connecting lines between themes and anecdotes
7.Experimentation/ Pushing it further: Doodles. Anonymity – rolls, cut-outs, blanks, strike outs.
Sound recordings. Performative narration. Display and lighting.
8. Hang
2.Transcribe and Analyse recording content into themes
3.Sketch rough maps creating connections
4.Pencil final maps, ink in with fine liners
5.Extract and Write anecdotes, arrange onto work
6.Sew connecting lines between themes and anecdotes
7.Experimentation/ Pushing it further: Doodles. Anonymity – rolls, cut-outs, blanks, strike outs.
Sound recordings. Performative narration. Display and lighting.
8. Hang
Crucial Tools Exhibition, Groningen
In April 2017 I was requested to exhibit within the University, representing our faculties diverse talent, for a teaching conference of creative tutors from across the country. Aside from much appreciated recognition for my hard work and passion for this project, the show was also a brilliant opportunity to expand my understanding of the appropriate curation for these detailed works. Having previously shown only a singular piece and in a spot-lit, alternative exhibit space, I felt this was an important moment to experience the work in strong natural light and as a series. How do people relate to the works as a collection? Or to being surrounded by the works? Whilst the warehouse space and spotlighting had brought attention and interest to the work through environmental contrast, the white walls and ability to replicate the architecture of the space gave a clear and powerful atmosphere to the works.
Graduation Exhibition, Groningen July 2017
I am thrilled to announce my successful graduation of the Autonome Beeldende Kunst degree at Minerva Academie, Groningen, and share with you these photos of my final exhibition. A selection of three of my schematic portraits along with an Ipad giving visitors a chance to contribute to my newest project: 'Tired', www.melissadowning.weebly.com/blog/im-tired