 |
U.S. Naval Signal Flag Narratives (series)
32" x 24" ea.
|
|
Artist Statement: The series "U.S. Naval Signal Flag Narratives" consists of 26 editions of serigraphs. Imagery consists of
photographs as well as with hand and computer aided drawings and paintings, working with PhotoShop,
Illustrator, and FreeHand. The confluence of computer processes with serigraphy provides a contrast
between digital and analog media. The use of digital in my work allows the manipulation of photographs
and the precise drawing of diagrams. It allows me to print color separations of photo based work which
are then translated directly to the screen. The physical working process of screen printing, although
difficult, is important to me. I hand pull all of my prints, one color at a time. My prints may have as few as 8
colors, or as many as 17. My meticulous attention to craftsmanship at the computer and with my
printmaking is an integral part of the content of each print.
Maritime flags are used to communicate while maintaining radio silence, transmitting messages by hoisting
an alphabet flag on a halyard. When hoisted alone, each flag voices an individual message. Each print in
this series contains the image of one flag and its written meaning. Included are my interpretations of the
flag's message. My narrative intent is not to render concepts through realism, nor is it to literally illustrate
each flag's definition. Important to me are the patterns of effects which sustain a cohesive connection of
my stories, and create metaphoric associations with the viewer.
Memories seem to be more lyrical than literal. The process of revisiting one's history is natural and allows
one to adapt to possibilities in the future. When I began this series, I thought the imagery to be only about
family relationships and personal memories of growing up within the culture of the Navy. I soon realized
that in addition, my concepts represent experiences shared by thousands of service-families. The military
constitutes a separate and distinctly different subculture from civilian America. The government
develops, maintains, and staffs its own resources to support the member family as it attempts to cope
with the stresses and demands of the military lifestyle. These care-taking resources create a closely knit
community that exercises a powerful shaping influence on the children. These prints examine a wide
scope of influences. These prints connect my memories to my present.
|
|
