Primary Medium: Mixed media
Other media: Installation


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Website: http://www.shannonmgagne.com

Artist Statement
Breaking Roots is an installation composed of altered baby food jars combined with clay and tree roots. I collect objects used to feed, pacify and care for my children. Motherhood changed me physically, emotionally and spiritually. The child that once lived on the inside of my body is now living on the outside my instincts are heightened to protect and provide for the life that is so precious to me. As far removed as I am from nature, the design of my body is one in the same. The ceramic forms are inspired by roots defined as the origin of all things; roots anchor the plant to soil to absorb nutrients or the basal portion of hair, nail, and tooth. The installation was conceived in response to the nurturing of my daughters and has evolved as a tribute to the recent passing of my grandmother. The roots are also a metaphor of my family history; we come from the earth and will return to the earth. My work is about the delicacy of life; the beginning and the end are closely related.