Nicole Duennebier

I am most compelled by the form of objects that I am physically repelled by but intellectually attracted to.

A recurring subject in my work this year is Cordyceps. A parasitic fungus which attacks insects and caterpillars and replaces the tissue of the host. The infected insect attaches itself to the highest point in the vicinity before dying. A bright fruiting body emerges from the dead insect and engulfs it. Each fruiting body differs widely depending on the species it inhabits, tailoring itself to the dimensions of the insect. The Cordyseps covers the body in a symmetrical configuration which can at times be eerily delectable in appearance.

I think of the masses in my paintings as fruiting bodies, malignant growths that take on a lavish formation. They are not lying still but are very slowly expanding out across the terrain, usurping surrounding materials. These figures become garish amalgamations of color and texture. Similar to the forest still-lifes of the 1600's there is the sense of malevolence connected to the living things that move along the forest floor. But this malevolence derives from the uneasy combination of textural pleasure and disgust. Within the delicacy of the masses there is the indication of "festering" in the form of sodden underbellies and noxious fumes that rise into the air.

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For more information please contact Aucocisco Gallery:

613 Congress Street Portland, Maine 04101

www.aucocisco.com

Links: caitlinduennebier.carbonmade.com , dereksmithluke.carbonmade.com