Susan Maddux: The Art of Folded Canvas Sculptures
Susan Maddux, an artist with a rich background in textile design and a profound appreciation for her family's artistic legacy, meticulously explores the dynamic relationships between various mediums: textiles, painted canvases, and three-dimensional forms. Her creations frequently bring to mind the graceful draping of traditional kimonos, a subtle nod to her Hawaiian upbringing and Japanese ancestry. These vivid artworks are more than mere paintings; they are elegant, cloak-like sculptures that adorn walls, each fold and curve telling a story of material and movement.
Maddux's approach imbues her pieces with evocative titles, such as “Mantle,” which conjures images of historical attire designed to provide warmth and comfort around the shoulders. Other works bear names like “Flourish” and “Thrum,” hinting at their conceptual and even metaphysical depths. The artist often constructs towering stacks of folded canvases, creating forms that subtly echo human scale and form. This thoughtful engagement with proportion introduces a nuanced reference to the human body and emphasizes the enduring nature of textiles throughout history.
A defining characteristic of Maddux's artistic practice is her deliberate use of thick canvas folds, which serve to highlight the profound impact of repetitive gestures and recurring visual motifs. Within these layered forms, she occasionally integrates patterns, skillfully navigating the tension between softness and rigidity, as well as the interplay between what is revealed and what remains hidden. This exploration adds a compelling dimension to her work, inviting viewers to contemplate the tactile and visual nuances of her material choices.
The artist's creative journey is one of continuous evolution. Following an inspiring period at the RONDO art residency in Mexico City, Maddux has embarked on new experiments, integrating novel materials and patterns into her sculptures. This ongoing exploration reflects her dedication to pushing the boundaries of her craft, ensuring that each new series offers fresh perspectives and innovative expressions.
Maddux's distinctive artistic vision results in captivating works that merge diverse creative influences. Her unique method of manipulating painted canvas into sculptural forms not only honors her personal heritage but also pushes the boundaries of contemporary art, creating visually compelling and thought-provoking pieces.