Why do I make art? What am I hoping to share with my creations?

Doug Patton

Version 1

I consider myself a collage artist that leans toward unconventional materials. My methodology relies heavily on the building up and tearing down of found papers and objects with an interplay of drawing and painting to highlight or add nuance to the narrative. Finding ways to bring seemingly disparate items together to encourage a unique dialogue, is seminal to my process. More recently, I have extended my collage into the world of wearable art. Through rebuilding and layering fabrics into new garments, I can experiment with bold design while adhering to the challenges of structural integrity and a desired fit. Be it fabric collage or my multi-media projects, my aim is to remind the viewer to remain playful in aspects of their life and to celebrate with me, the complexity of our world. Today, where paradox seems ever-present and everyday objects are humming with potential for new perspectives, my expressions reach out a hand to the onlooker and kindly ask if they would like to dance.

Version 2

There is power, if not, at least a sense of control in creating. My methodology relies heavily on building up and tearing down. A dance, with addition and subtraction as partners. And, like in dance, there is a communicated give and take between the two. In my creative process, I, the creator, am evaluating what my partner, the process, needs along the way. With these choices, we impart a myriad of individual truths and collective resonance. Whether perceived as erratic or refined, the audience now joins in the dance and engages in the push/pull relationship to what they are seeing and experiencing. The visual representation of the dance, my art, may aim to remind the viewer to be playful, bold in their choices and to not take themselves too seriously. Conversely, our confusing and often unjust world warrant expressions of concern. These may be subversive nods to illusory constructs or the weaving of the delicate thread that separates hypocrisy from paradox. Shining a light on the world's wrongs and rights by challenging convention, pointing to injustice and celebrating the complexity we live within. In a world where ugly can be beautiful and everyday objects are humming with potential for new perspectives, my expressions reach out a hand to you and kindly ask if you would like to dance.