Project Proposal for Marine Eggs
I have been
conceptualizing an installation of underwater marine life eggs, constructed of glass, for the last seven years. All my childhood projects were about animals that lived in the water and my art has reflected this fascination. Having children of my own brought back my vision of the sea as a mysterious place, full of diversity. This installation will allow me to use many intricate pieces to create a sense of wonder. I hope that the viewer will feel surrounded by life ready to burst forth.
I will make several types of eggs including shark, fish and octopus eggs. I use two different types of glass in my studio because each has unique properties. Borosilicate glass will be used to blow the shark eggs or purses, fused glass panels will represent fish row and I’ve already attempted what I anticipate will be the most challenging, octopus eggs, using soda lime glass.
I made my first octopus eggs in August. It was incredible to create them with an encasement of milky transparency around them and then see those three-dimensional eyes staring back at you in a way that photos could never do. When I created those eyes, I felt that excitement that comes from the realisation that my mind had been working with my hands while my conscious mind was completely unaware of anything else. I liken it to finding your mind is quiet after meditating and not knowing exactly when you stopped thinking of breathing and just breathed.
Though my work is whimsical there is always an element of truth in the details. My mermaids exhibit webbed fingers, with nail polish, because mermaids are known to be vain creatures. If there are fins on a fish they must be located on the body so that the fish is propelled or able to steer.
As in past exhibitions, I have explored which media and techniques would best deliver my vision. To display the collection of underwater eggs as I envision them, I intend to use a number of media, adding the necessary details and elements required in the making of an underwater environment in which it would be viable for eggs to grow and mature.
I am excited to be able to exhibit and share my ideas on a large scale. The Gibson Centre in Simcoe County has confirmed I am to exhibition there. It’s a wonderful venue where viewers are able to engage closely with the work. Planning and execution will require intense focus and time to evolve this body of work. I am applying for funding to cover the cost of materials, studio production time and professional photography, which will enable me to apply to organizations for exhibitions and assist in the development of my career.