"The Alchemist's Workshop" by Angela McElwain

acrylic, photos, rose petals, chain, pearl, fabric

11'' by 14''

My work illustrates my inquiry into the transformative possibilities of the human endeavor to overcome cultural obstacles, blockades, biology or religious tradition in order to attain one’s own sense of Self. The content is particularly apropos to womxn’s experience. The structure of collage and constructs are especially useful for this inquiry because they reinvent the material used in them to a new meaning whether the source is torn paper, bits of scrap, strands of hair, shards of glass or other detritus. Some materials carry more emotional significance than others, hair is one example. Others assume a new form different from their original use or purpose acquiring new symbolism.