Artist Statement
Katie Kavanagh strives to create balance between a deep reverence for the past while searching for the beauty in a deteriorating, contemporary society. Her images juxtapose traditional themes and images with icons of urban culture. It is through this constant urge to compare and contrast that she exposes the viewer to a realm of thought that pushes them to recognize the similarities and differences between the now and then.
This theme is explored not only through content but also through execution. This is achieved by combining a traditional foundation in painting and draftsmanship with an experimental and expressionistic sensibility that reflects the nature of current times. The final product proves to be an often surreal depiction, with a compulsion to create balance between such extreme elements.
Kavanagh leaves it up to the viewer to decide how each aspect is categorized. It is not her intent to state a specific perspective but rather offer an open forum on what ideals should be maintained or disposed. Playing on the individual's need to constantly judge "good" versus "bad", she hazes the line, bringing into question social acceptance and normalcy.
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