Local Artist Examines Self-Reflection…

By Changing The Context

Local artist Susan Springer Anderson works with a wide range of found or recycled supplies when crafting her unique art: sculptures consisting of a series of armature figures clothed in varied materials. These armatures – the metal framework around which a sculpture is built – are the skeleton of each piece, the support structure that holds the figure together while wax or clay is applied. And in Susan’s artwork, this wire skeleton is left exposed, creating an unexpected yet breathtaking affect.

The attire worn by Anderson’s unformed figures is constructed out of an assortment of unusual substances, including paper towels, vinyl tablecloth and coffee filters. These materials, once possessing an alternative function, are provided new meaning when placed on the sculptures.

“My goal is to look at things a little bit differently, to take the everyday objects around us and take a second look at them by having them placed in a different context,” said Anderson.

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According to Anderson, clothing is a reflection of our souls. What we wear demonstrates how we respond to this world and how we make choices. The metal figures are self-portraits, reflecting the artist’s changing values over time, how she viewed herself and those around her at different stages in her life. By presenting items in a slightly different context, the hope is to inspire viewers to see themselves in a different way and more closely examine who they are and what truly makes their lives meaningful.

Anderson is also exploring these same soulful themes in her next project, currently holding the working title, “Garment of Praise.” In this project, an armature figure will be dressed in an article of clothing fashioned out of Tyvek, an insulating substance used to cover houses during construction. The Tyvek will be covered with text that consists of a series of journal entries written by various individuals. These entries will serve as a record of joyful moments experienced throughout the year and will communicate the overall theme of “insulating” one’s self from the negative by concentrating on what is positive and beautiful.

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Learn More about Susan >>> www.susanspringeranderson.com
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See Susan’s Art in Person at KrisTEES Through March 2011
KrisTEES
24-01 23rd Ave
Astoria, NY 11105