Featured Series: Secret Life of Still Life Models

The Secret Life of Still Life Models - Artist Statement

I have been working with still life models for the last thirteen years. Initially I thought of them as objects. Over time I realized each of them had a personality and, in fact a private life as emotionally rich as ours.

After winning their trust, I convinced a community of still life models to accompany me during the month of my residency at the Vermont Studio Center. Living with them and getting inside their very private lives has been fascinating, intense at times, but extremely rewarding.

The series of work on paper I am presenting is the result of my cohabitation with the group of still life models. Their cooperation in this project was essential and I am personally indebted to each one of them for sharing with me their stories, emotions, joys and sorrows.

VSC Johnson, VT 7/15/99