Joanne Hayakawa
Artist Statement
I am drawn to explore symbiotic, opposing pairs. I have used body parts - hearts, brains, spines and lungs - and coupled them with parts from nature - roses and their thorny branches, cactus and their soft interiors protected by sharp spines, and lilies for their purity and references to rebirth. These images have predictable implications. However, I endeavor to put them into contexts where there are shifts and references to the body, and a viewer may not be able to easily apply standard expectations.
Currently, birds have become a symbol of frailty and strength. They have also become an indicator of the health of an environment, both human and natural. I am hopeful the viewer will empathize with the context that I provide as though they are regarding their own body.