Lauren Simmons

In my work I tend to look at Psychological notions that can be portrayed by personal iconography/symbology,  anthropomorphism and are produced through the use of surrealism/the abstract. I do this type of work because my past specifically, my childhood has greatly influenced and shaped who I am today. I want people who view my work to be able to either potentially see a little bit of themselves in my pieces or be able to sympathize with each piece. Tough topics can be difficult to start talking about and I want through my art to be able to start some of those conversations. This body of work helps to do that by delving into how I have grown as a person because of  my time at Bloomsburg University, not only my relationships, specifically familial, but also, psychologically and emotionally. This growth is shown through the use of unconventional materials in my sculptures and putting a piece of me or my history into each work I create. Through printmaking I developed the courage and understanding to accurately express the topics of my past; whereas in my focus, sculpture I gained the freedom to continually delve into and properly express that theme.