A note from 2020
The concept for Imagine Hope was developed during the early part of 2020 in answer to a call for proposal. We had just started sheltering in place as a result of the Covid19 pandemic, and preparing the proposal became a primary focus.
The theme of hope was directly related to world events as we watched the very best of humanity rise to the surface like cream. Personal 3-D printers used to “manufacture” face shields — sewing machines moved to kitchen tables to make masks — singing and cheering and dancing on balconies and rooftops. Hope.
My proposal eventually advanced to round two, but as is sometimes the result of a competition, it was not chosen as one of the finalists.
When the process of research and preparation came to an end, I realized that I am committed to the idea, and have begun to look for a way to bring the project to completion. I envision it large-scale, with hundreds of translations of hope.
During 2020, I found myself more grateful than ever for my art practice. The contemplative, meditative, deliberate state that making art requires is a good place to be anytime, but especially in a time of extreme disruption and disorder. Things like line, color, concept, and materials can cause us frustration as we make and remake, but they are also a kind of balm.
Part of the balm was other artists and friends as we’ve remotely offered feedback and encouragement. We invited each other to meet online in our respective isolation, and learned new ways to stay connected, new ways to stay hopeful.