Theses and Dissertations - UTB/UTPA
Date of Award
12-2003
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Fine Arts (MFA)
Department
Art
First Advisor
Lenard Brown
Second Advisor
Richard Hyslin
Third Advisor
Philip Field
Abstract
This exhibition paper presents the linkage of apparently unrelated topic and content. This arduous task is accomplished through an exploration of opposites and an overall presentation in the form of family fun or domestic distress disguised within personal world and the overall umbrella of homonyms: Claus (as in Santa) and Claws (as in cat). The work presented is a view of Leonardland, an intensely personal vision of my family and our history melded into a proposed future as seen through a wild conglomeration of seemingly dissimilar visions comprising the eclectic cultural mix that is our life on this geographic and cultural border. The nature of the artwork itself is described as narrative and contemplative. The text first provides an introduction, which sheds light on my artistic intentions, an artist statement follows, composed of philosophy and intent propelling the artwork. A rationale for Leonardland is established through the creation and explanation of an alter ego: Leonardclaus. The text then becomes interactive with a large-scale riddle in the form of an algebra exam of sorts, a remnant from my prior (and who know maybe future) career and a body that is broken into the examination of the Leonardclaus psyche and its development coupled with the integration and multiplication of a feline family. My primary objective in this paper is to attempt to connect the vast and far-flung forces of family life, from economics to ergonomics, to the vast and disparate imagery that made up my world through the Claus/Claws body of work. In addition the establishment of present historical precedence, present future possibility is undertaken, as well as a presentation of any personally unique technical wrinkles.
Granting Institution
University of Texas-Pan American
Comments
Copyright 2003 Chris Leonard. All Rights Reserved.
https://www.proquest.com/dissertations-theses/claus-claws-journey-through-leonardlands/docview/194040351/se-2?accountid=7119