Sarah van Sloten

ARTIST STATEMENT

My work presents a disjointed yet familiar narrative which weaves together semi-autobiographical stories of childhood, being a woman, and motherhood. The timeline presented in these narratives is not relayed in a linear fashion. As memory is subjective, a compilation of methods for documentation seems to be the most worthy endeavour.

My process of making is impatient, hyper-focussed, and unpredictable. Where lack of knowledge, technical ability, or proper procedure occurs, I am happy to engineer an unconventional solution. This way of working lays bare an earnestness and an attempt at authenticity.

I collect a variety of objects and materials, and have an interest in displaying my work in unexpected ways. I think about my work in relation to the way a small child values a prized rock collection, which is carefully displayed along a window sill. Or, how a collection of chewed gum could find its place, organized with intention, across the headboard of a bed. When I stumble upon these types of tableaux I notice their peculiar ritualistic nature, and their altar-like reverence. Perhaps this is an attempt to control a particular situation, a creative outlet, or an external visualization of some internal anxiety. This part of my research takes place in everyday moments.

My work moves between being serious and not; while it is oftentimes friendly and bright it is also thoughtful. Its playful nature works against the interpretation of any one definitive statement. I explore important subjects and themes in awkward, poetic, humourous, self-deprecating, and eccentric ways.