Figurative representation is irresistible- particularly, how it manifests the humanist tradition that places the human form at the extreme of perfection. I equally find the fundamental deception inherent in creating illusionistic images on a flat surface compelling. These graphite and metal leaf drawings x-ray drawings (1997-2001) explore and parallel both these concerns. They reveal the processes both the body and its representation have undergone.

These drawings of x-rays reveal the invasive effects of both disease and technology on the human figure. The depiction of disease and medical procedures challenges the humanist notion of the body’s perfection and completion. Additionally, the radiographic images present a real picture of the physical body while penetrating it on the flat picture plane. The dichotomy between actual and conceptual representation is similarly balanced in the body of these pieces. They emphasize their flatness through the use of texture and materials, thus becoming records of their act of creation while depicting the illusionism of x-rays. Pinned directly to the wall, the pieces bridge the gap between passive representation and active model. As such, the drawings stress their nature as marked paper.

Concerned with reconciling figurative representation and the formal concerns of creating illusionistic images on a flat surface, these works on paper explore the interchangeability of illusion and reality. Here, both the imperfect body and tangible art piece reveal vestiges of the biological and creative processes they have endured.