#Meettheartist
Meet Deane Valentine Bowers
"I am passionate about being an Environmentally Responsible Artist and I make it my mission to create EcoFriendly Art"
Tell us your artist story, some biographical info, when did you decide to be an artist? Why do you make art? Where did you study? Etc.
Originally from Richmond, Virginia, I relocated to the Lowcountry almost 10 years ago and now call Charleston home. Inspiration is always found in the beauty and simplicity of the South Carolina Coast. For this reason, I am passionate about being an Environmentally Responsible Artist and I make it my mission to create EcoFriendly Art. While my eclectic collection includes pieces in Mixed Media Collage, Clay and Paint, my work in Found Object Assemblage is what brings me the greatest joy and satisfaction.
As a self-taught artist, my creative process is guided by two principles. First and most importantly, produce art that makes people happy. Second, strive to be an Environmentally Conscious Artist whose work has a positive impact on the Environment and celebrates recycling and repurposing as an Art form. Using mostly discarded, abandoned and reclaimed materials, my "Environmental Folk Art" honors those forgotten things. That shattered, busted and cracked piece of metal or wood lying in the streets or on the beach is the focal point of my Found Object Sculptures. There is an abundance of items thrown away, left behind and forgotten on a daily basis that are free, plentiful and readily available. Every nail, screw, bottle cap, piece of wood, wire or metal has its own story as it has gone through some journey to end up discarded. Each item was useless on its own. The twisted nails, metal scraps and old bottle caps display an individual weak roughness, but when paired with other fragmented pieces, they convey strength. Their interaction with one another is accomplished through detailed layering in a graphic and interesting medley highlighted with bold, vibrant colors to create an unusual balance of Industry and Art. When damaged, disconnected and incomplete things come together in an unexpected and imaginative way, a distinct plainness becomes a raw form of beauty.
What do you want people to walk away with after experiencing your work?
There is a message of Hope, Fresh Starts, New Beginnings and Second Chances woven into every piece of my Art. By giving ordinary objects creative value, I am bringing out the best in these things and celebrating their flaws and imperfections as their greatest features. The rusted, street worn items used are a constant reminder that even the most damaged and irregular things have value. By discovering the goodness and the rich potential in that broken piece of wood, wire or metal, I hope that my Art will encourage others to embrace and celebrate their own shortcomings and challenges and see them as beautiful, unique characteristics that make them who they are.
To see more of Deane's work visit her website: http://www.DeaneVBowersArt.com
Comments