Artist Statement

Dawn Morishige


Light reveals what’s hidden behind the obvious. Attention will enable us to see.

We surround ourselves with layers. We create layers in our lives to keep us safe; to get a job; to attract a mate. We reveal only certain parts of ourselves, at certain times, according to what we think is appropriate; what is expected and what will be accepted. Sometimes others can uncover aspects of our personality that we had forgotten, or never knew to begin with. My work moves toward the viewer, pulling the viewer in to uncover what is inside. My work challenges the viewer to really see all the layers that were blended to create each piece.

My work involves layering different materials. I use film, fiber photos, wood, metal, resin, paper, fabric, enamel, dry pigment, and acrylic medium. My pieces are either created in screen form, free hanging panels or layered etched film that create a 3 dimensional sculptural image. Etching on film creates an image that is both drawing and photograph. I started etching on film to enhance parts of a photograph and create my own image; something completely unique that could not be duplicated. My work is a blend of the different disciplines of photography, printmaking and sculpture.

Light is a primary consideration in the creation of my work. I print on film because of it’s transparency. Film allows light to move through the work and create a continually changing image. We are different people at different times. Light brings about different moods, different feelings and creates an energy that can range from tranquil to hyper. Lighting can create a powerful presence or a subdued shadow. I create work that evolves, as everything does throughout the day, in the changing light of the sun. Light enables the process of revealing the inner workings and layers of my work.

My work questions assumptions of imagery and category. My images are influenced by the pictorialists. The single tree, a blurred building, the haunting feeling of the familiar yet unfamiliar. My work is also influenced by the craft of design, particularly Japanese design. One image becomes several by angling them in different ways, to create a new scene. The viewer sees the whole image at first, and then begins to realize that the piece is not what it appears to be; it is much more. These static images are moving and fluid. The work does not fit into a singular discipline. As the viewer continues to interact with the work, the piece reveals the intricacies and details of the varied media which stretch and blend to become one object. The assumption of familiarity is gone as they realize categorical references do not fit.

I strive to push the boundaries of the imposed limits of any discipline.