Artist Statement for Show, Josh:
Each of these works are an attempt to visually depict my attitudes, feeling and interests.
All of us are isolated in our own skins, but we can be further separated by economic status, religion, and emotion.
Empathy and imagination allow me to place myself in the situation of others. I do so to consider how I might help to stop some of the horrors of our world.
Daily we see people at intersections with cardboard signs. This is a representation of the wrong and broken parts of our society. Surviving on the fringes people are often forced to greater difficulties without access to medical treatment, food, or shelter.
Fear and hatred of the 'other' allows for murder, unkindness, and all of the evil that is possible in man. How do I stand against this?
As a Christian it is important to be in the world, but not of the world. How can I best affect the world for good without becoming as corrupted as it can be?At the same time the world is beautiful, full of potential, made of the light of God. I am not brought down by the sad broken isolation I see; I am instead lifted to a hard path.
In self-examination, harsh light shows us each of the flaws most obvious to ourselves. We exaggerate what we dislike about ourselves. This is also true of introspection. I am coming to accept and love my physical form, my quirks, and my path. The harsh lighting is also symbolic to me of how surroundings can either bring you to become better or corrupt your heart and soul.
As you look at my analysis of myself and my world, I hope you will consider your view of yourself, your world, and your path to improve it for all.