MEGAN GOTTFRIED
APRIL 5 - MAY 31 // STREETS & PATHS // GREENSBORO, NC
Megan Gottfried is a multidisciplinary maker that draws from the infra-ordinary, which is the observation of events and moments in daily life. Inspired by artist Lenka Clayton, Gottfried pulls ideas and motifs from her own life experience. She represents these ideas through clothes, fabric and objects that live life with her; the physical, contemporary evidence of experience, proof of her existence. These objects can percolate into an eight foot painting or be as small as a one inch pebble.
instagram.com/gottfried.megan
I spent my residency time devoted to mindful walks and relic collection. This residency is influenced by artists such as David Hammons and Lenka Clayton. Hammons once said in an interview by The New Yorker "I decided a long time ago that the less I do the more of an artist I am. Most of the time, I hang out on the street. I walk." What does it mean to see a place for the first time after three years of living there and never looking?
Spring 2020 is a historic time of loss and transition. These changes impacted my mental health greatly over the months of quarantine. In order to maintain any sort of structure or schedule, I walked. The Shelter Residency forced me to explore outside and the streets of Greensboro that were still unknown to me, despite living here for three years. Everyday I would venture out and find a relic. Each relic is unique, but held the same purpose of marking time and reflecting on the outdoor experience of each day. I collected rocks, nuts, trash, anything I could put in my pocket. Each relic symbolized time passing when placed in my relic calendar. The relics that were ephemeral I coated in a gel varnish for preservation. Throughout the residency I collected over 55 relics and completed at least one walk each day. This residency has shown me the importance of mindfulness and physical exploration.
Location: Streets and Paths of Greensboro, NC
Reason: Covid-19 has affected my life and mental health immensely. The university I attend went online, my studio closed, my job was canceled, I am living in isolation and am worried about my family's health
