Violet Maimbourg

Artist Statement

Human hands have the incredible ability to create and the power to destroy. My work shines a light on this delicate balance between creator and monster using hyper-realistic silicone extremities. My kinetic sculptures are more self-portraits than figments of my imagination, showing how I have been conditioned through taunts of childhood bullies, the love of friends and family, and societal rhetoric to view my humanity and body. Creating a replica of my head and placing it on display represents the vessel in which my memories, talents, and behaviors are present. Displaying my head detached from my body removes the self-consciousness and shame I hold in my body, but the tears streaming down my cheeks are a reminder of the lingering pain. Detached limbs often pair with bright colors and flashing lights that emulate carnival games and attractions. When experiencing the lights, sounds, and motion together, my work overwhelms the senses while demanding attention. In this way, I create a bright and attractive facade that reveals darker themes.
My recent body of work explores mental illness, memories of childhood, and behavioral cycles that have sabotaged my interpersonal relationships. For example, my small-scale carnival ride displays personal childhood objects locked in a central cage, preserving memories and pain. This ride spins slowly while playing a lullaby from a childhood music box, which creates an unpleasant and foreboding experience. In many of my artworks, I use motors, lights, sounds, humor, graphic elements, and decorative text to attract the audience while simultaneously disturbing them. Some works have a faux vintage appearance and appear to be neglected antiques. My work comes from an introspective place, focusing on my human emotions, hoping to have my audience face the same introspection and feel my experience.