When I was about 8 or 9, I had a very vivid dream that I remember to this day. I was in my 3rd grade classroom, but all of the kids were sheltered inside these individual “booths” with our desks inside. The booth had a small slit where we could look out. I remember feeling a deep sense of comfort in this dream that I can still feel when I think about it now, fifty years later.
I got a similar feeling when I put on my “Tree Stump with Birds Mask”, and this picture is, to me, a perfect avatar for that part of myself.
The first mask was made from papier mache. I have attempted it in ceramics three times but still haven’t quite perfected it. I plan to next recreate it as a painting and as a soft sculpture (as soon as I get my sewing machine repaired). My long-term goal is to replicate it in as many different media as possible and have it be the focus of an entire gallery show. I’ve also had it printed onto a T-shirt, just for fun.
Our visual Artist-in-Residence is potter Richelle Shadoan (California, USA.)
Artist Statement
I’ve always been an artist; my earliest memories are of making art. I am currently working primarily in ceramics. The connectedness of my hand and the medium of clay very much appeals to me. I envision working in ceramics for the rest of my life.
I am curious about the façades we hide behind and the barriers we construct to shield and protect ourselves and I am imagining those things as literal masks. Besides being culturally relevant, they serve as a physical and metaphorical separator between ourselves and the rest of humanity.
Masks are personal to me as a neurodivergent person living in a neurotypical world. Masking is something I’m good at and I enjoy the mystery. Masking allows us to present ourselves as we wish to be seen. There is a sense of safety in being able to observe without being observed.
You can connect with Richelle on Instagram @redscorpiomade.
If you’re interested in being an Artist-in-Residence in the future be sure to submit work to Neurokind this year.
Neurokind Open Call 2024
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Neurokind Issue #1
MAR 1