"The Exposed Series: Flowers on Black"

Artist's Statement by Heather J. Kirk

Can flowers and sunsets be overdone?
Not if they're done right. Or "wrong" that is - removed completely from their natural and usual element. Taking flowers we suppose we know well, and separating them contextually causes the viewer to see colors more richly, and examine each detail in its intricacy. Torn from their stems, undersides exposed, floating in solid black space, I reveal the vulnerability of each bloom. Like people, the environment in which a flower exists, and the occasion to which we tie it, speaks volumes.

Purple Circle Backs with White Top

When we don't know where we stand as individuals, we feel susceptible, uncertain and exposed. How someone responds in such situations reveals genuine character.

Random Sample

While the delicacy of a flower goes unquestioned, I hope to reveal its strength and true core. When picked apart, separated, denuded, examined from the under side - deconstructed per se - the exposed petals and other particulars never falter in their beauty.

Heather J. Kirk is a writer, photographer, and graphic designer. Her art has shown nationally, and in January 2007 was the subject of an article in Kaleidoscope magazine. A recipient of a Vermont Studio Center's Poetry Fellowship, she has published a book titled We...a spirit seeking harmony in a world that's out of sync, and contributed to Chicken Soup for the Latino Soul. Her photography and books can be seen at http://www.photographicartistry.citymax.com. Interested readers can subscribe to "Heather's Art Newslettter" at HJKirk@juno.com.