Thursday 2/26 Entry

Human Presence

Human presence, and the lack there of, makes my work. The large, empty spaces that are normally overwhelmed with human activity become nearly vacant, but not quite empty, creating a kind of limbo between occupation and absence. This limbo is rarely observed in everyday life and, as with anything that we rarely encounter, causes discomfort and confusion within the viewer.

But why? There are many times within the day that we, ourselves, are alone. We talk to ourselves to prepare for an interview and practice flirtations in hopes of attracting a mate, all in the confines of solitude. Yet, when the setting of these activities becomes a normally public arena, we rebellious, even guilty, as if we might get caught and punished for doing absolutely nothing wrong. Even as a child, sneaking through the hallways of school with a bathroom pass was entertaining. I myself would often explore the corridors, peeking around corners to make sure I wasn't caught. Of course, if I was I could simply say that I was heading to the bathroom and then proceed to the nearest one. But something about it made me feel as if I was in danger. I haven't got an answer to this phenomenon, but I am currently exploring it within my work.

*The above photo is a stock photo taken off of Corbis.com*