Artists are barometers of their own personal experiences, perspectives and feelings. We respond to situations that are put upon us or in some cases, just can’t resist stepping into. And then we are asked to make profound statements that tell the world about our work and what we are trying to convey. So, for those that are seeking an “Artist Statement” , here’s mine:
“I think my art speaks for itself (at times, quite literally). As much as I might “say” in a particular piece, I can promise you that there is a lot more than meets the eye lurking underneath.
I love the interaction of wordplay and art and utilize it frequently. My “Message Paintings” come with serious overtones or a great (sometimes twisted) sense of humor. Some poke fun at our own joy, intelligence (or lack thereof), sorrow or stupidity – you fill in the blank. Many of them are clever (sometimes too clever for their own good), if not downright recalcitrant. And my political pieces? Let’s just say they are definitely an ongoing exercise of my right to free speech, whether you agree with them or not.
If my pieces could really “talk”, I believe quite a few of them might say, ‘Oh come on, you KNOW you want me – STOP thinking what other people will say’ or ‘Go ahead. I dare you to hang me over your boring, beige sofa!’
Please remember that your right to agree with, like, understand, disagree or dislike my art (or that of any other artist) is EQUAL to each artist’s right to create it, including my own. If you have trouble understanding this notion, please go back and reread the First Amendment. STAT.
I can’t think of a better way to end any statement than that.”
Patricia A. Smith
July 2011
Special thanks to Brad Miller for his photography. Miller’s photos altered and catapulted the image of Mercedes Benz, while changing the face of commercial photography with his use of “liquid light”. Brad’s photos have graced virtually every publication on the planet. Brad’s latest venture is fine art photography; his images are a joy to behold and his most recent work can be viewed at
