New & Experimental
Contact zones refer to dynamic spaces where opposing forces converge, interact, and engage in a complex interplay. In my mixed media paintings, I explore the intricate relationships between humans and the natural world, depicting them in a state of metamorphosis with various animals and plants. This endeavor is rooted in a post-humanist perspective, emphasizing the fluidity of boundaries that traditionally separate humans from the rest of nature. In these works, boundaries dissolve and hierarchies are leveled, allowing for a deeper exploration of interconnectivity and coexistence. Through this lens, the agency of other life forms is elevated and examined, showcasing their role in our shared environment. The concept of contact zones, originally articulated by Mary Louise Pratt in her influential work “Arts of the Contact Zone” provides a foundational framework for understanding these interactions. This idea has been further enriched by Donna Haraway’s book “When Species Meet”, where she underscores the need to rethink relationships between different species in our interconnected world. My paintings invite viewers to reflect on these notions, encouraging a dialogue about identity, social constructs, transformation, and the shared experience of life across lines of difference.