Dawn Edmondson

In an investigation of place and space I gather, encase and preserve memory into ritualized objects and iconic images. They honor grief, personal grit, the persistent beauty, and power of the life force despite duress. Wax and plaster is used to encase, hold, and preserve.

The complexity of systems found in the natural world, their interrelatedness, along with the intricacy of natural form, materials, colors and details enamor me. Life in all its forms (plant, animal and human), the shedding and cycling of organic debris and detritus, and the old farm circa 1790’s that I call home are sources for my creative research.

Tired of spending money on manufactured art materials, and observing the Rhode Island landfill grow exponentially, I began to consider the ecological impact of my art practice as well as my household buying habits. Investigating what is typically cast off from repeated purchases: bailing twine, avocado seed pits, cardboard egg cartons, egg shells, and other organic debris become my medium.

This along with the parts and pieces of natural bodies (roots, branches and other organic ephemera found on the wild land where I live), formed by environmental stressors, combine to make peculiar objects that confound and confuse.

These objects are an expression of life experience, personal grief, determination to exist and persist, and the ability to recycle and transform.