Heidi Moller Somsen

Artist Statement

Like the child who suffers pain when their first set of teeth cut through their gums, and suddenly can enjoy the wonders of new foods, we all feel pain as we grow and change. My work speaks of finding meaning in the quotidian and beauty in the struggle. Whether it’s a vessel, or a human bust, I am motivated by the idea that art has the power to make us feel something and even promote healing. I am interested in the idea of imbuing empathy within a work of art. To achieve this emotive quality, I find myself experimenting with a wide variety of materials– clay, but also bicycle inner tubes, wood, and found objects. I enjoy combining different textures and forms, which may result in a traditional freestanding sculpture or, perhaps an installation or performance piece. Past themes in my work include anxiety, feminist theology, and myth. I often find the catalyst in something I read, especially poetry. Current works are concerned with ideas of erosion and the human condition in relationship to nature.