Statement

Over the past three decades, I have worn many hats as a creative professional. When I am not making my own art, I am facilitating others in their creative expression. I have worked in other artists’ studios, taught extensively, managed and created programs in the nonprofit visual arts sector, and co-founded a non-profit gallery.

Currently I am focused on exhibiting my installation 1845: Memento Mori, in Ireland.

My artwork prior to this specific project has been about intimate objects and works on paper, that explore design theories of color and form. Both bodies of work relate to one another. In my artist’s statement regarding my Bellybottles series, I refer to “an ongoing interest in displacement in physiological and psychological geography, specifically through aging and change.”

Prior to creating 1845: Memento Mori, I had never explored a subject that had an overt political or social context. But I did seek “to create compositions that were organic, delicate and sensual, evoking a sense of an alternate landscape, one that was both strong and fragile; an altered perspective that celebrates the fragility and miracle of existence.” I recognize now that the foundation for 1845: Memento Mori was set a long time, but it took time, over fifteen years, to build on it.

My dream has always been to bring the work home to Ireland. I am profoundly grateful for the support given to me to date. In 2021-2022, the work was shown at Irish Heritage Trust properties Strokestown Park House, Co. Roscommon and Johnstown Castle, Co. Wexford, the Ulster American Folk Park, Co. Tyrone, the National Museum of Ireland- Turlough House, in Co. Mayo, St. Patrick’s Hall, Dublin Castle, and at the Irish Workhouse Centre in Portumna, Co. Galway. The work will remain in Ireland as part of a recent acquisition into the permanent collection of the National Musuem of Ireland.

Paula Stokes