My Work

Artwork for Inspiration: American Gothic

Intentions: American Gothic always holds my attention while I try to discern what is behind the expressions of the midwest father and daughter. Yes, this painting is supposed to be of a man and his daughter. The stoicism of the man contrasts with what I see as longing or sadness in the woman. Maybe she’s remembering events in the past and/or looking toward a future with little promise. I wanted to try to find a relation with these characters as I make a ‘portrait’ of my daughter and me based on our experiences. She shaves my beard off as a metaphor for the change that is to come in both of our lives and maybe to expose who I ‘really’ am. She recites memories to let me know who she really is - what made her her, and what role I played in her evolution. I (try to) stay silent and stoic to connect with the father figure in the painting and represent the substantial change of influence I will have in her life. All I can do now is let her go and be present to the times she still needs me.

Other notes: I originally intended for my daughter to say, “Dad I have to go” and grab the backpack from me before leaving the scene. I broke my stoicism at that point and the camera focus was off when she walked out of frame so I unfortunately felt the need to cut that element.