art of the artist

artist statement:

Art is created by the artist, but their concepts were constructed from our minds. So one could say that the art we make is just as much us, as we are it. That is exactly what this piece is about. 

I took apart old and unfinished works of my own art, and transformed them into a sculpture of myself. A collection of the what-ifs; of the pieces I considered “not good enough” to show others. In a way, it speaks to the harsh hand of perfectionism, and the idea that we’re our own worst critics. Time, growth, and knowledge play a role as well, since the artwork used is from my childhood up to now. We are the knowledge that we carry; and the stories we hold onto. 

Many people and experiences have influenced me as an artist, but I’d like to address one person in particular. My middle school art teacher, Ms. Jameson. Unfortunately she recently passed away. I developed a strong desire to learn and grow as an artist because of her. Being in her classroom and home was always something I looked forward to. I will forever cherish the memories I have of her, and in a way, being an artist carries on her legacy.

—Nicole Martin