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Torpedo Factory Artist of the Year - Artist's Statement
Joyce McCarten: Don't Postpone Joy

Every painting is a journey all its own.  Although I approach my art intuitively as well as intellectually,  I draw my inspiration from nature, the unconscious, found objects and personal experiences. 

I have explored a variety of directions over the years, and find this is the best way to keep
myself challenged.  In this latest season, I have enjoyed using not only paint, but also paper, metal, plastic, wood, and fabric.  These media pieces add an element of surprise to my process.  And, to further complicate things, I often go from canvas to paper to board, enjoying each format for what it brings to the work.

The “American Dream” series, which I have recently begun, has been inspired by the many immigrants with whom I have recently become acquainted.  In the ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) class I teach, I have met recent newcomers from Angola, Madagascar, Sri Lanka, Ukraine, Serbia, China, Argentina, and India.  In other situations, I have made friends with people from Turkey, Ethiopia and Ghana.  All of these recent immigrants had the same dream – to come to America.  When I hear their stories and I see how they struggle, I am reminded of our history and our rich heritage.

The only constant in our lives is change.

 

 
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