Through
her use of beads, sequins and embroidery, Stephanie Hirsch's canvases are
literally 'illuminated' with phrases of enlightenment and hope.
Continuing her personal investigations into individual development
through text, Hirsch ups the ante by removing the "easy access" of
familiar graphic elements inspired by iconic punk-rock album covers and
adding a recognizable figurative element. The use of the figurative
element humanizes her compositions and is based upon self-portraits
driven by her fascination on the whole social media "selfie" craze.
Wanting to delve deeper into how "selfies" create an image of how we
want to be portrayed in the world rather than who we actually are, she
shot her "selfies" while saying and feeling the emotional content in the
compositions. Hirsch states, "I was also inspired by Cindy Sherman's
work titled 'Aging Socialite.' Sherman perfectly executed the daunting
look in the eyes that spoke of insecurity and fear of a life no longer
lived. My fear of just existing while living promoted my 'selfie' study
as well. I am also profoundly influenced by Barbara Kruger whose text
based work questions autonomy and desire, which I yearn and struggle for
within myself."
The
journey of how Hirsch struggles with her external and internal self
creates a unique entry point for the artwork. The viewer can identify
and reflect upon their own personal experiences by simply reading the
words and connecting with the visage. This simple, yet profound shift
creates the intimate and introspective underpinning to the work allowing
the viewer to oscillate between the beauty of the materials and the
message implied. Using insights like "I'd Rather Die on My Feet than
Live on My Knees," "I Was Not Built to Break," "We All Find Our Way,"
and "It's Never Too Late," Hirsch weaves a story of overcoming one's
personal adversity and building an inner spirituality that hopefully
filters out into the world.
Stephanie
Hirsch has shown in exhibitions in New York, the Hamptons, Miami and
San Francisco. She was a featured artist in Miami Design District's Art
Walk (2012) and showcased in the Mercedes Benz VIP lounge at Lincoln
Center during New York Fashion Week (2012). Hirsch was among 30 artists
commissioned to create a unique commemorative crown for display in
Harrods (London) in celebration of the Queen's Diamond Jubilee (2012).
Hirsch is the founder of Inca resort wear and author of "Mother
Nurture," published by William Morrow (2008). She lives and works in
New York City.
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