White Trash (2020)
Take a closer look at these works through our virtual tour.
White Trash is my collection of art made from repurposed materials and found objects. I have utilized manmade items—sometimes literally found in the trash—such as paper, chicken wire, makeup, and old cell phones combined with natural objects such as branches, moss, and egg shells. By arranging the objects on canvas and pouring white paint over to secure them, a moment in time is preserved. White paint symbolizes purity, giving a fresh outlook to discarded materials and therefore creating a symbolic item from trash. I use color sparingly, and when I do, it’s only to enhance the natural colors of the objects.
There is a very personal and intimate approach that I take when working with objects from a specific place or person. It’s about respecting what it exists while finding a unique way to showcase it in a new light. Great artwork comes from self-confidence, cultivating the eye, and a natural common sense about living life. It’s about finding beauty at every turn and creating something that draws the eye towards it.
-Trace Barnett
Featured image copyright of the artist.
White Trash‘s display at the Carnegie was made possible with The Cupboard’s exclusive sponsorship. You can visit their storefront at 504 Bank St. NE.
