A B O U T T H E W O R K

My recent arts-based research engages with restorative theology and autobiographical narrative, drawing parallels between life’s small moments, memories, and everyday objects, and the rich arc of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The works explore the concurrence of the common and sacred through overlapping transparent fabrics and mulit-media renderings. Through these works, I participate in active archival – looking for, gathering, and celebrating small graces in everyday moments, circumstances, relationships, and objects.

(Un)common Grace is a play on the theological doctrine of “common grace” stemming from Matthew 5:45 which explains how God’s goodness extends universally and undeservedly to the whole world. I consider and expand the paradox of the “common” quality of grace (it is everywhere and extended to everyone) with the “uncommon” quality of grace (it is precious and far from mundane or dull). 

In response, I visually shift layers of spiritual and physical realities, splicing and fragmenting images on semi-transparent layered media. Storied objects, found and inherited – faded pillowcases, wooden picture frames, cotton shirts, slats from aged crates – are deconstructed, rearranged, stretched, and manipulated. Acrylic washes over patterned fabric are layered with graphite drawings on thin papers, stitched and pinned and swaying in places, frame over frame. The viewer’s vision shifts with the unaligned imagery, an invitation to seek out the places where the renderings sharpen and focus, raising questions of attentiveness, significance, relevance. The works ask what objects and experiences around us might be evidences of God’s goodness and love if we are but attentive to them.

(Un)common Grace: all that I don’t deserve was on view August 25 - October 5, 2024 at the Dorothy and Wendell Mayes Art Gallery in Brownwood, TX.

Thank you to my dear friend Brie for capturing the show so beautifully.