The central theme of my work, which is generally three-dimensional, is the vulnerability and impermanence of matter. This vulnerability, and the questionable beauty of decay, I try to visualize in my objects. I am also inspired by the many ways in which humans try to shape and exorcise the transient nature of being …… the sculptures and sacred places decorated with flowers and pigments, the mysterious, the animated, and the rough beauty of it.
My objects are therefore an attempt to create my own sacred places. Under the label “Holy houses” I made a series of objects in the form of small houses, altars and carts. They have been inspired by relics and objects in which tangible memories are stored and to which in some cultures magical powers are attributed. The large and small sheets of paper containing tangible memories in the form of texts and remains of letters are labeled “Wall letters”. Similarly, the pod-like shapes in the series “Memories” are used to keep fragments from letters of oneself and of others. My latest objects are a kind of crossing between talisman, fetish and relic holder. The inspiration for the objects labeled “Chatelaine” originates from the western antique waist-belt rings to which various objects could be hung which told something about the status of the owner.
My method is artisanal and process-based on the one hand, and direct and emotional on the other. My materials are earthly and tangible, in itself a great source of inspiration for me. I work mainly with paper, sometimes in combination with textiles, iron and wood. I process these materials through existing or own techniques while using paint, wax, oil and clay.
archieven anna van bohemen
