carrie a. dyer 

A_R_T_I_S_T_ statement:


The work is created through reoccurring patterns of thought through the repetition of daily interactions. The imagery is dissected from childlike states of isolation, an in-ability to communicate traditionally, being misunderstood. Parts and pieces of animals reference Icon like objects which play as psychological metaphors. The wing is essential for the bird to fly; antlers are essential for the deer to protect. Metaphorical icons are juxtaposed next to the simulation of water like area-scapes frozen in some kind of time. Size reflects the intimacy of the psychological space, the moment, the idea that even thought is meaningless due to the short inconsistent nature of existence itself. The act of organizing these thoughts creates a formula of understanding. “Things that weren’t supposed to happen” reflects a childlike perspective of everyday events that shatter an idealistic view of how society should be. The work is a reaction to this realization. It is a silent scream, an emotion that creates an inability to react physically. Small areas create catalysts for hopefulness where seemingly insignificant actions create the ability to see as you might not have seen before.

 

The theme “thing’s that weren’t supposed to happen” is central to all of my work conceptually. My work is based on personal experiences –the idealistic view from a child’s perspective. Icons and ideologies collide with the realistic view of how and what the world is. Iconic objects are used as metaphor. Through these juxtapositions abstract landscapes are created. Using the idea of time as a point of origin allows, me as the maker, to use materials like transparency, and the appearance of water-like area-scapes.

There are many different ways that people express the same emotions and psychological states. The techniques and mediums chosen have an impact on how the viewer decodes and interprets the work. My personal work includes a variety of different media. From painting, drawing, photography, illustration, construction, digital prints, fibers, video, inflatables to graphic design, all areas are connected to each other and represent methods of communication. All of these media are significant to my process as a graphic designer and artist.

The use of techniques such as layering Plexiglas and transparencies allow me to work in layers. These techniques mimic the characteristics of water. Layers create a three-dimensional effect and cast shadows on the wall. I have also used water in my work –from encasing water in resin to using a motor to create a kinetic piece creating a funnel in the water. Water can be interpreted as a metaphorical icon in many ways.

I see my work as research of questions that can’t be answered. Unstoppable forces meet unmovable objects. My work is a tool through which I communicate indescribable emotions too painful to put into words. I expect the viewer to have their own interpretations of the work just as there are many different interpretations of visual language.