about

 

 

Sheila Lynch

I am an artist working in Chicago. Since August of 2018 I’ve been “making with” Transart Institute for Creative Research. In my current practice I explore the porous edges of my body and natural landscapes as sources of knowing. My recent investigations looked at the creative practices of others, and surrealism, animism and mirror touch synaestheisa to contextualize infinite loops of learning in my own practice.

During my first Transart residency in August of 2018, I left with a question from reviewer Kim Schoen. She asked if I was porous. Her question provoked me to examine my process more closely.  Susie Quinlan asked me if I could work differently and suggested I look at the work of Hilma af Klint, which led me to research Rudolf Steiner’s spiritual science to understand its relevance for af Klint. These were and are still edges against which I push in my search for clarity and truth. 

For the past two years Transart residencies, cohort partners, and advisors provided edges; space for inquiry, making, support and critique. Jean Marie Casbarian recommended the work of Ana Mendieta. Sonia Barrett inspired my dirt tea bags project. Michael Bowdidge encouraged experiments with digital manipulation, helped me set research parameters and to trust my mistakes. Susanne Martin suggested prompts for body energy explorations. All asked questions that helped me better understand and articulate my praxis.

Thanks to Sean, Michael, Sarah Jane, Kate, Susie, Susanne, Rene, Rudi, Flavia, Winston, Syowia, Peter, and not included in this photo, Jean Marie, Sonia, Taylore, Polly and Gabrielle. This is the short list of those to whom I am grateful. Many other workshop presenters and reviewers provided edges that allowed me to further explore my own.