ARTIST STATEMENT - JENNIFER M. COLLINS

My current work reflects ongoing themes of houses/shelter and traveling. It seems
a collection of opposites; establishing a sheltering home while allowing the lure of
the highway to provide a means to escape our boundaries of the nest. Directions
from maps and compasses point us to explore our wanderings, while the house
images provide the sense of home and safety. Patterns of vines are images that
reflect gardens and nature.

All pieces make use of mixed media processes that include watercolor, acrylic,
graphite and found and made objects. Drawing and painting merge with sewing and
cutting and gluing. Layers of colors and transparencies add to the depth and hidden
qualities of the work. Personal symbols and words can be found, bits of artistic
expression to compel us to reflect on ourselves.

My background is in watercolor and mixed media work as well as calligraphy and
graphic design. I have a BFA from Colorado State University, 1984, with a
concentration in drawing and painting. I maintain a full time studio in Denver
while raising two boys with my husband.