Artistic Statement

George Shortess

Who am I as an artist?

Introduction.  My early work, coming from my studio training at the Boston Museum School, emphasized painting and drawing. I still actively paint and show my work in acrylics and watercolors. Painting often provides an aesthetic grounding as I explore more experimental work. One of my aesthetic goals has been to create work in which the viewer must take an active part. I have always been attracted to Japanese and Chinese ink paintings, in part because there is an ambiguity that encourages me to try to complete the work perceptually. As a result I began to explore ways in which my own work could more directly involve the viewer. 

Early Interactive.  Works Initially I began by creating works in which viewers could respond by writing responses on cards. This led me to explore sound as an interactive medium that could be integrated with a more static visual environment. I created paintings with sound generating electronics that could be turned on and off by the viewer with a switch. This was interesting but it was a rather unnatural process. Then in 1979 I bought an early Apple computer and built my first interactive art work in which sensors were triggered by the movements of viewers to create sounds. Since then, I have continued to develop my interactive systems and installations. 

Overview of Interactive Art.  My computer-based interactive installations explore the metaphor of our inner world interacting with an external reality, and our need to make a confusing environment coherent. My goal as an artist is to create an environment in which viewers find their own ways and their own truths. In some installations this environment has been tangible, such as furniture. In other installations, I have used more ambiguous materials, such as fiber cords and aluminum bars. Often I have incorporated some of my paintings. In the installations, viewers discover places where they can begin to understand and appreciate. Each viewer helps to create an art work, as part of experiencing the work.

Working Methods.  I approach my work as a process of construction. I usually start with a general idea, which gets further refined until I feel satisfied with the results. This is true for my paintings and the installations. For the installations, I draw floor plans, build small maquettes and lay out parts of the installation in my studio. However, the final form of the installation is usually not completely realized until it is in place, due to the specific characteristics of the space. As part of my work with computer systems, I have, among other skills, done computer programming, worked with MIDI, built electronic circuits and refinished furniture. I consult with others when necessary. In the process, I have also developed expertise with computer graphics. In addition to incorporating computer graphics in my installations, I have shown individual computer generated prints in a variety of exhibits. In my paintings, I stretch and gesso my own linen canvases, and am continually working to improve my painting and drawing skills.

Current Projects.  I am currently working on an interactive installation based on interactive trees. This is an outgrowth of my long standing interest in landscape painting. I will continue to paint and show these works as opportunities arise. 

Work with Students,  I also view my work with students as part of who I am as an artist. The experience of interacting with students generates enthusiasm and inspiration for my own work. For most students the idea of installation art is new. Also using computers to create art works of this kind is often unfamiliar to them. While I work within the general framework of the project as developed with the teachers, the emphasis is on the ideas and creative imaginations of the students.

Final Comment.  It is the energy and creativity of a successful installation or painting that provides part of the stimulation for my continuing in the arts. Other sources of motivation include my own curiosity and my desire to communicate my ideas with others. It is also for the occasional epiphany that occurs when it all comes together. My art is my way of life.