WENDY GERVAIS

Duet, mixed media, 58 x 42 in., 2013

The series, Comfort Clothing, consists of more than 20 mixed media works using clothing shapes as subject. The idea originated from my memories of sewing in my teen years and adulthood. The activity fostered an extensive knowledge of patterns, fabrics, and layout formats as well as an understanding of basic domestic economy. It encouraged an understanding of the social implications of being “in style” or “out of style” and the social repercussions. The act of sewing initiated an awareness of social complexities and allowed contemplation of social predicaments and possible outcomes and solutions. As a visual artist the process of art making lends itself to this same occupation; taking time to discover and contemplate. The parallels of both activities intrigue me.

WENDY GERVAIS

Patterns, mixed media collage, 38 x 48 inches, 2013

The two activities of art production and sewing are physically and emotionally similar. The process of organizing my subject matter in the Comfort Clothing project is much the same as with a sewing project. The formal considerations of the aesthetic are notably similar as well. Creating my own artwork is permeated with reminiscing and evaluating relationships and memories. These memories figure integrally into my art making. As well I have an interest in the conformity/deviance issues of fashion trends and in art making. The art making process and the subsequent emotional activity remains a fascination to me.

WENDY GERVAIS

Prairie girl, mixed media collage, 40 x 50 inches, 2011 - 2014
Not Sorry, mixed media collage, 38 x 48 inches, 2011

The two activities of art production and sewing are physically and emotionally similar. The process of organizing my subject matter in the Comfort Clothing project is much the same as with a sewing project. The formal considerations of the aesthetic are notably similar as well. Creating my own artwork is permeated with reminiscing and evaluating relationships and memories. These memories figure integrally into my art making. As well I have an interest in the conformity/deviance issues of fashion trends and in art making. The art making process and the subsequent emotional activity remains a fascination to me.

Website: https://wendygervais.ca