I do not remember any time when I was not creating something with art materials. Mostly drawing. I did not have many materials as a child, but I always found ways to draw. Drawing and coloring eased me and sustained me in a difficult environment. Art continues to be the conduit through which I process personal and global events.
Someone asked me once what it was like to create a work of art. I told them it was like birthing a child – you conceive an idea, nurture it, develop it, and labor through its birth. There is some pain, but you forget the pain after you complete the work.
My work is very personal. Each piece is inspired by experiences and/or beliefs that are important and meaningful to me. I do not shy away from controversial subject matter, and I am drawn to the myriad of ancient creation stories found across so many cultures. The simple shape of a human figure is a theme in many of my works. We are connected by our humanity and by our stories. Through art I tell my story and relay my observations of something that has moved me to respond or speak up and out. And I hope the works resonate with those who view the art, even if the inspiration may be layered under the imagery.
I work in a variety of mediums using both traditional and non-traditional techniques. I am primarily a painter, but my tools have evolved to include fabrics and fibers. I often dye my own fabrics using traditional batik processes and learned how to do shibori, an ancient Asian art form to dye clothing in an artistic way. I create my own silk screen designs and gel prints for both paper and fabric applications. I sometimes combine my skills into three dimensional projects like felted vessels, art dolls, ceramics, and jewelry making.
DINA O'SULLIVAN 