Mary Miller

I begin my found-object assemblages by gathering soulfully worn, rusty and weathered things such as old furniture parts, driftwood, license plate, dinnerware, tile seconds and metel. After assembling these various elements, I begin adding depth and intrigue to the piece by layering reflective objects, transparencies or grid patterns under stained glass or brightly colored plastics. It is during this process that I often add poetry or meaningful phrases. if the piece calls for it…sometimes I have a piece of poetry in my mind from the beginning and it sets the tone for the entire piece…though sometimes I stumble on something during the process that just fits. After gluing and pouring resins, I tie all the elements together visually with colored grout, caulk and layers of paint. At the end I often go back in and add free standing found objects on ledges I’ve created. This is to add depth, balance, color and somtimes just for the sake of play. The final effect of all these processes is something like a sculptural collage.

Color, texture, depth and visual tension are all important aspects of my work, but mostly my work is about our humanity, about accepting the flawed and worn parts of life. To find beauty, wonder and awe in the commonplace.

…though sometimes my work is purely about play.

…about bringing lightness and joy where I can

“I view my work as visual poetry…to me it is about a way of being alive in the world…lyrically, passionately, intelligently & humourously alive!”