LORI HOROWITZ | ARTIST
Artist Statement
My work is a study of personalities and environments, recording moments of humanity unfolding in nature. We are at a unique moment in time historically, when social interactions, judgments and behavior are rapidly changing. These works unveil facades and penetrate issues, revealing the true nature of humanity. These universal issues can be personal, social or political, reflecting challenges we face globally. The need for belonging safely within our current diverse and often divisive society is reflected in my mixed-media sculptural relief artworks.
I have crafted a unique practice which thematically re-humanizes anonymous people as well as element of nature that we encounter daily, providing intriguing narratives, formally stretching the bounds of the materials I choose to work in. Drawing from historical use of relief sculpture I bring these methods to current topics.
Exploring materials and techniques are an essential component of my work. My path and methods are continuously evolving. The physical creations of these sculptures are quite demanding. Appreciating the challenge of each piece, I collapse three dimensional scenes and narratives into two- and three-dimensional space. I explore processes with photography, wire, papier mache, encaustic wax, torched copper, brass mesh and painting. These meaningful layered and technically complex pieces merge conceptual exploration with the transformation of image and process. These evocative artworks trigger conversation, awakening emotion or memory in the viewer.
Photographs of anthropomorphic tree roots and unusual plant life, form the underpinning of my recent series, “Exodus” and “Rooted in Humanity”. These works depict the human form both isolated and vulnerable, examining the frailty of the human condition. Inspiration for these works began with long walks in the woods examining nature’s design and detail. Mixed –media photographic mono-print drawings are the basis for my 3D work. Delving deep within the image, I encourage figures to reveal themselves. Forms emerge from the earth, deeply rooted past struggles and growth. Within these works, I symbolically use carnivorous plants and fungus to illustrate the alure that draws us innocently to dangerous issues. These colorful warnings often attract us as unknowing victims and questions, “What Lies Beneath”. Larger sculptures combine past processes of photography, wire, soft sculpture, encaustic wax, torched copper and paint, in mixed-media sculptural installations. Continued experimentation leads me to a new technique of sculpting photos and accenting them three dimensionally. With each sculpture comes new discoveries while mirroring our current social climate.
The angst of societal conflicts is defused by incorporating the serenity of nature’s beautiful lakes and woodland elements within these series. My work reflects struggles that repeat themselves throughout history and echoes the challenges we face globally. We are all one species and must stand together to find place and belonging, preserving our precious environment and encouraging the harmonious coexistence of humanity and nature.