Statement
This work centers on ocean imagery, which for me has always been symbolic of the happiness and joy of the coastal community I grew up in. When all the conditions were perfect (weather, wind, swells, tides) all activity in the community I grew up in stopped and everyone would head to the ocean. The ocean became the guiding force of the community and on a good surf day the reality of daily life would be on hold. My own personal connection to the ocean goes beyond appreciation of the beautiful view it has been the guiding force of my life in all major decisions I have made from playing volleyball to the reason I paint or even choosing H.S.U. for school can be traced back to my connection with the ocean.
Even though surfing isn’t a sport I often partake in, the practice of watching the water has become a sort of meditative practice that inspires my work. Finding the perfect wave is like having a breakthrough in your creative process: once you feel that moment of bliss all you want to do is recreate that experience. Surfers obsessively watch the water and paddle out even when conditions aren’t great in hopes of creating that special moment on the wave. Artists have the same obsessive mind set when it comes to creating new work and having that spark of inspiration.
Another aspect of my work I wish to communicate is the impact humans have on the ocean. Growing up on the coast, the growing problems facing the ocean were apparent. Over time, ocean trash and plastic has simply become part of the landscape, often more common than the natural elements you might expect to see such as shells or driftwood. My sculptures and painting on found objects are meant to bring visibility to the trash that I feel is often being over looked while simultaneously pointing out the absurdity of the cliché “beach décor” often sold to represent the pristine oceans that we are slowly killing.
Danielle Carlson
April 201