am a visual storyteller. With my paintings and drawings, I build a mythological space where human issues can play out. The stories that I tell are about those basic human conundrums that are common to us all.
I am exploring contemporary social and psychological issues while cloaking them in two allegorical languages: the language of myth, and the visual language I inherited from my own love of art history. Since I was a child, I have studied the sensual languages of art history with a deep pleasure.
At times, my paintings will reference themes or details from such artists as Fragonard or Watteau, Durer or the vanitas painters. The lyrical animal themes might call to mind 17th and 18th century hunting scenes. On the other hand, my hybrid 'dolls’ appear to be futuristic reconstructions of the female form. Still, I render these disturbing figures with the luminous craftsmanship of medieval icons. In both veins of work, my content and intent are very contemporary.
My animal characters are avatars that lead us through the rough terrain of the inner life. Like the animals of traditional mythologies, they represent parts of us. Yet, at the same time, they remain very much creatures of Nature.
I am interested in deep ecology, human and animal consciousness, nature vs. nurture, female identity, social justice, bioengineering, and the future of this planet. Many of these concerns find their way into the work. I use the techniques of beautiful painting and compelling narrative to draw the viewer into a dialogue on these concerns.
My work comes from a place of genuine curiosity…. A desire to understand and reveal what is hidden from ordinary sight. I enjoy creating an imaginary space where I can explore the interesting questions, share a compelling story, or simply invite the viewer along with me and my protagonists on a journey of discovery.
-Sarah K. Bean
