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Memories from the Attic
This assemblage provides a visual representation of the “memories that come spilling out” when you see an object that takes you back in time. The storage attic as a metaphor for the mind. The vielle rose shade of the velvet backdrop suggests a bygone era. The slight sadness of that shade is counterbalanced by the shininess of the red and gold Murano glass and the white and copper freshwater pearls in the necklace falling from the pail. An ivory doll has been lovingly cradled in beige fabric in the trunk as a reminder of childhood toys packed away in an attic.
The necklace segment is composed of carnelian (a semiprecious stone), freshwater pearls, and Murano glass. Other components include dollhouse miniatures, velvet, wood, resin, metal and plastic.
Custom framed with museum glass in a sophisticated deep wooden frame in collaboration with Chevy Chase Art Gallery, Washington, DC.
Frame color: Burgundy
Size (in inches): 15.75 x 12.5 x 4
Framing
Though many designs appear simple, each work in fact takes several months to create. The final version is rarely the one initially envisioned; the laws of gravity force numerous adjustments. Execution involves a multitude of skills, some of which are acquired specifically to achieve the desired artistic result. In fact, it took several years of experimenting before I even hit upon a technique for creating assemblages.
The framing process is itself a component of the work, both conceptually and artistically. Though the frame is clean and modern in appearance, the framing process is not as simple as it seems. The determination whether to create a "room" (as with Born Free) or an intimate atmosphere (as with What Price Silence) is in fact part of the artistic process.
Works are custom framed to provide sufficient depth to accomplish my artistic goals as well as to support the weight of the work (often 40-60 pounds). The 4-inch deep decorative wooden frame curves outward to bring the work closer to the viewer.
As many designs are supported by the base as well as the backing, the framing process can be tricky. It took several months of experimentation to determine how to create a work that it was practical to frame. The glass protects the work from damaged caused by dust and dusting.
