Statement — Carolyn di Fiori Hopkins

The enduring beauty of forms found in the smallest detail coupled with vulnerability and resilience connects my imagery to something visual from the real world observed from an apocalyptic point of view referencing climate change, technology, oppression, migration and borders. The contrasts of weight and buoyancy/solidity and transparency are the properties I have used to define this work. The intent is to pose questions while intentionally providing few answers in a provocative manner. I attempt to convey representational forms that relate to the tangible world while creating an aesthetic experiential space in an environment that tries to live in harmony against a brutally built human-made environment.

Seduced by certain combinations of materials and textures, I am interested in creating visual deceptions. I probe the disparity between surface and reality. Floating and at the same time encased, these images provide camouflage, evoke isolation or claustrophobia and allude to our containment.

In my new work, I am using a variety of techniques to push various boundaries allowing play-out between abstraction and representation. Captivated by the interplay of materials and textures, this fascination creates visual illusions. Exploring disparity between surface and reality: traditional notions of perception are challenged. Through illustrative combinations and interactions my creative process is about capturing the imagination. I experiment with varied materials and techniques until arrival at a final composition that evokes the desired effect.

To embrace flowing forms, and sensual surfaces plays a large part in my work with continuous investigation of movement, action, and placement. Complex layers are infused with disparate materials such as wax and paper along with selected use and radical employment of material.

By challenging the unconventional my evolution spans painterly styles showcasing diverse techniques while questioning and engaging in a narrative beyond the expected.