Artist Statement

I use photographs to transform found objects into playful pieces of art. Fusing transparent figurative and family portraits with children’s toys and blocks, boxes and tins, I create a playful tension between imagery and object. My work breathes new life into these found objects, yet they leave hints of the past in their lovingly worn appearances; the flecks of paint missing, soft corners, dents and dings.

I live with a lot of pain and have for many years. In my continual search for an answer, as well as my way of dealing with the unexplained (this is the Gray Area), I dissect my Gray’s Anatomy book. The pages find their way into my work, layered under images of those closest to me. The illustrations bind, clothe and wrap the body. Putting the inside on the outside, I wear my heart on my sleeve.

These works depart from the formality of a frame as they are arranged on a table top or a shelf, often stacked or placed side by side to reveal narratives of family snapshots, or the complexities of the feminine allure. In combination, I give you a chance to visit these earlier playful times while drawing on memories, contemporary issues, and visual formality.

Artist Biography

Heidi L. Kirkpatrick, an established fine art photographer, based in Portland Oregon has exhibited widely over the last ten years. Kirkpatrick’s work is included in collections at The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, Texas, Springfield Museum of Art, Ohio and The OHSU Corporate Collection. Kirkpatrick’s work often depicts a view of the world experienced by women. Kirkpatrick develops her own images, including silver gelatin printing, alternative processes, photographs using a Holga toy camera, transparent images on film and 3-D mixed media objects. In addition to being an experienced mid-career artist, Kirkpatrick joined The Northwest Academy, in 2004, to teach photography at the high school level.