ARTIST STATEMENT
I’m an observer in an unobservant world. In response, I create places where overlooked individuals become iconic representations of our daily life. Themes in my paintings often originate from the frustrations, injustices, and unfairnesses of daily life– or from the humor and curiosity sparked by being around other people. The subjects depicted in the resulting works are, more often than not, a family member or friend who I ask to pose for me. The work in this exhibition exemplifies idioms and stereotypes prevalent in our everyday conversations.
“Glass Ceiling” creates an immediate and unconscious response. Language prevents us– collectively, and as viewers– from really looking at the work and engaging with the image. We must wrestle with the words– their meanings– and personal preconceived mental image before being able to see what is directly facing us. The language used in various stereotypes prevents us from thinking deeper about this woman and her life, her situation– again, we are stuck in our own preconceptions. How has language evolved? It has influenced how we see and describe ourselves before we even have a chance to form words.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Sandy Kessler Kaminski’s artwork has been featured in solo exhibitions at BE Galleries and Pittsburgh Center for the Arts, and in group exhibitions at Erie Museum of Art, Holt Russell Gallery at Baker University, KS, 55th Annual National Drawing and Small Sculpture Show, Del Mar College, Corpus Christi, TX , Art of the State exhibition in Harrisburg, and the Three Rivers Arts Festival. Her work can be found in the collections of the United States Department of the Interior, Carnegie Mellon University, Ohio State University, Austin Peay State University TN, PPG Arena, Community College of Allegheny County, Dick Blick Art Supply LLC, Del Monte, Citizen’s Bank, The Public Employees Retirement System for the State of Ohio, to name a few.
© Sandy Kessler Kaminski