| Rippings
Artist Statement The rippings originated in the 1970s in San Francisco and got their name because they were composed of primed canvas that I ripped into strips and then dyed subtle pastel shades. Some were hung from canvas covered wooden supports and others were wrapped around bamboo poles and simply leaned against the wall. They were a hybrid of painting and sculpture because they involved the floor space as well as the wall. The more recent rippings were actually completed paintings before being ripped into strips (deconstructed) and reconfigured as entirely new works. In the process, I would reattach the strips to their original panels or attach them to wooden bars mounted on the wall at a height so the ends didn't touch the floor. As stated, this concept had its origins in the 1970s, soon after graduation from art school and a move to San Francisco. At that time, artist friend Lynn Hershman, writing for Artweek, dubbed me "Jack the Ripper." Click for an installation view of a show at a now-defunct Los Angeles gallery in the 70s featuring both our work. |