ARTIST STATEMENT
As an artist and filmmaker, my work explores themes of nature, memory, trauma and identity. Using a multi-disciplinary approach, I often distort, layer or crop my compositions, introducing elements of abstraction and chaos. This disruption of traditional modes of image-making and storytelling is intended to question dominant narratives–about beauty and worth, power and belonging, wellness and wholeness—and encourage viewers to consider alternative perspectives.
The painting, “Marisol III” is inspired by the work of Marisol Escobar, known professionally as “Marisol,” whose powerful figurative and sculptural works combine traditional techniques such as wood carving with painting, found objects and photographs, as they examine and satirize cultural norms. While Marisol’s work attracted more attention and critical praise than contemporaries such as Andy Warhol, she disliked the media distraction and moved to Europe to focus on her work.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Cary Okoro received her BFA and MFA from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) and is a member of the Director’s Guild of America (DGA.) Her paintings, photographs and mixed-media work have been included in shows in New York, Chicago and throughout the United States. Okoro’s personal documentary about the devastating effects of Alzheimer’s disease, “Something Should Be Done About Grandma Ruthie,” aired on PBS, won numerous awards and has screened internationally. She is the recipient of grants from the National Endowment for the Arts, The Illinois Arts Council, The Puffin Foundation and many others. Her work has received prestigious awards and is in collections across the US.
© Cary Okoro