Natalie Bounthisavath: Void Theta Belcher Gallery, 02/28/2022–03/03/2022 Advisors: Shaun O'Dell, Erik Friedman Works in the Exhibit

Artist's Statement

I have always considered myself a pretty reserved person at first glance. Art is a means of expression for me, to capture the emotions I feel that I could never express out in the open, or that I could not express in words. The emptiness I feel, the pain I experience, my anguish and my sadness, I want to represent that all through my work. Most of it is very personal; I'd like to say my primary audience is myself, but that doesn't mean the feelings I have can't resonate with others. My work may be based on my own experiences, but feelings aren't bound to a single individual. We all feel something; those feelings may be brought upon by different circumstances, but if my works can resonate with others and validate them, I know I'm not alone in the world. If my subject is about someone else, I like to envision what I think they feel or the essence they radiate. From their features to their expressions, all of it can tell a story. Sometimes I feel that the most introspective emotions can be a face that looks as if it is lacking in expression, and oftentimes I find myself drawing blank or empty looking faces, especially when it relates to myself as the subject. I find that it allows the viewer to wonder more about the subject and the innermost feelings they don't show on the outside. What we choose to show may betray how we really feel.

I generally do not have a preference in medium; it all depends on what I want to convey. Preferably, I love the simplicity of black and white. Colors can be very symbolic to certain emotions, but with an achromatic piece, I can work with light and value and texture to define the mood. Most of my work tends to be very solemn and dark, and I feel that the lack of color emphasizes the overall mood I want to convey. Some of my works have dramatic or harsh lighting, as I feel that can heighten the emotions of the piece. Texture is also a considered aspect, rough brushstrokes or erratic movement of a medium can really display turmoil and raw emotion. I want my audience to be left with their feelings moved, whatever they may be.