Artist Statement for "Memento," Nov. 2008
I have been exploring my place as an artist in society, questioning conflicting desires for peaceful isolation versus a need for a greater sense of community. I try to balance my solitary studio practice with efforts to connect with others.
From May of 2007-2008 I built a portable sculpture studio and took it around town, asking people to model in exchange for the artwork. Working in public reinforced my belief that the creative process can be as interesting as the finished work. The performance aspect was fun: people stopped to watch and ask questions. I learned that by working in an open studio environment, I could communicate the sense of absorption and heightened awareness that I get when involved in making art.
When I was invited to serve as the Sculptor in Residence at the Saint-Gaudens National Historic Site in Cornish, New Hampshire, it seemed too good to be true. Get paid to do what I love in an idyllic setting? sign me up! I maintained an open studio 40 hours a week. The position was perfect for me. It allowed intensive solitary studio time interspersed with opportunities to interact with those interested in making art. During my 5 month residency, I focused on making a memorial for my brother, who died of cancer last summer. Memento is the title of the large paper figure. The small collages, drawings, and mixed media 2-D works, are mementos. This work is a chronicle of my experience.
I invite you to participate, to make a tangible memory: a memento. I will be at the Dayton Convention Center from 10-3, Monday -Friday for open studio during the month of November. I will provide materials, however you may want to bring specific images or small objects. The installation will be on exhibit through December. Please plan to claim your art work in January.
I would like to express my gratitude to the Dayton Society of Painters and Sculptors for inviting me to exhibit, and to the helpful staff here at the Dayton Convention Center. I would also like to thank the Montgomery County Regional Arts and Cultural District. Thanks to The Art Department of Sinclair Community College, for the encouragement and support of retaining my services as adjunct faculty.
- Leesa Haapapuro, Nov. 2008