This exhibition at the University of North Carolina - Charlotte’s Lambla Gallery is a compelling exploration that delves deep into the intricate interplay between art, science, and the localized geological heritage. At its core lies the inclusion of UNCC’s geology collection, a treasure typically concealed from public view, much like the concealed core material of our Earth, the metaphorical backbone of our universe.
In Erratic Accretion, we embark on a visual journey that combines a dynamic fusion of artistic elements, including the masterful use of India ink drawings, redacted field guides, collaged textbooks, and altered photographs. These elements become a critical lens through which we scrutinize how information is shared and how it shapes our perceptions of truth.
By presenting the University's hidden geology collection and shedding light on the influence of trusted materials and sources, this exhibition invites viewers to participate in a broader discourse at the crossroads of art, science, and the preservation of knowledge. It advocates for a more inclusive and open approach to knowledge dissemination, prompting us to question who possesses the authority to define what is true and ultimately influencing our collective understanding of science and the Earth's history.
"Through my artistic practice, I invite viewers to engage in a dialogue between the past and the present, the natural and the human-made. By manipulating and rearranging these materials, I highlight the inherent beauty found within the seemingly mundane. The resulting assemblages become a visual representation of the transformative power of time, erosion, and human intervention."
I this exhibition, delve into the captivating world of geology, drawing inspiration from the rich resources of UNCC’s geology collection, Earth Studies department, library, and archives, as well as my personal collection of mineral books. Through this multidisciplinary exploration, I seek to unravel the hidden narratives embedded within geological formations and the traces left by human interactions with the environment.
Geology, with its vast timescales and transformative processes, serves as a metaphorical framework for understanding the layers of history and memory that shape our existence. By merging the scientific and artistic realms, I aim to capture the essence of geological phenomena through the accumulation and juxtaposition of diverse materials.
Drawing from the University's geology collection, I examine the geological artifacts and specimens as fragments of a larger narrative. By repurposing these relics, I aim to breathe new life into them, enabling viewers to appreciate their beauty and contemplate their significance. The integration of detritus from both the University's collections and my own personal archives adds another layer of complexity, intertwining the geological and human narratives in unexpected ways.
Through my artistic practice, I invite viewers to engage in a dialogue between the past and the present, the natural and the human-made. By manipulating and rearranging these materials, I highlight the inherent beauty found within the seemingly mundane. The resulting assemblages become a visual representation of the transformative power of time, erosion, and human intervention.
"Erratic Accretion" challenges preconceived notions of geological exploration and blurs the boundaries between art and science. By showcasing the interplay between geological artifacts, detritus, and artistic expression, I aim to provoke contemplation about our place in the natural world and our role as stewards of the environment.
Ultimately, this exhibition seeks to illuminate the interconnectedness of all things, revealing the intricate relationships between geology, human history, and personal narratives.
