statement

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artist statement

My formal training was in painting. Fortunately, a way of working has evolved for me that combines the interest in painting media and my passion for fabric, sewing construction and textile surface design, such as dyeing and printing on cloth. Pattern plays an important part in my work. I enjoy using both traditional and modern technological methods.

Through my art I’m interested in interpreting inward spiritual and emotional states. The importance of life can be sensed when one is in the moment … appreciating the present, recognizing and accepting “what is”. I want my work to portray these “essential” moments somehow. Radical honesty is a goal. Authentic art work can occur when one is truly present in the act of creation. Mistakes, missteps, changes, seams that show all demonstrate the process of creation. Letting such evidence remain in the work helps us to understand that art and life are messy, full of trials and attempts, successes and failures, confusion and clarity. I want my art to show that in the processes of “working things out” there is purposeful struggle with creative adjustments.

Sharing what I have learned through the process of being an artist has always been essential to me. I hope that through my teaching, creative spirits may be encouraged and enlivened to express their truths. We are present in this world because of divine creativity. It is built into our natures – it is meant to be developed and expressed, each in our own manner. Through teaching, I am grateful to be able to pass “the way” on to those who sense they may use art, creativity and self-expression to live the life they might envision.

Art is to me is vitally important; it can be a vehicle for truth to be transmitted; it can guide and comfort. For me, it’s a sacred process of spiritual growth that may be shared with others.

©2009 Mary Elmusa
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