Digital Animation

Though firmly entrenched in the traditions of art- printmaking, painting, drawing from imagination, and sculpting the figure from observation, I was drawn to the early computers as digital material for the potential as an improvisational thought process. Working with personal computers since 1985, I artistically evolved alongside their growing complexity, finding increasing options to communicate emotive associations. Instead of  technical training in computers, 3D modeling or animation, as a studio artist I focused on my creative patterns and visual thought process. I became aware that each particular software seemed designed for separate jobs for different parts of a team production line. I chose to follow my curiosity and creative needs with this technology within my own limitations. Being more interested in the “voice” of the material rather than imitating reality, I searched  for a visual language that amplified the natural medium of the software. Exploring digital animation, I was not restricted by actual gravity — objects can exist in the same space at the same time in the digital world. I accepted “mistakes” or “glitches” as a positive aspect. I experimented with textures by distressing the surface of forms (shrinking, expanding etc.) rather than using traditional mapping techniques.  Animation is an opportunity for me to explore gestures through time and space.

Working with the computer is part of my regular studio practice in the same way I use all materials in my studio, giving insights and imagery that only that particular material can provide.