The "Gnaw"
series has developed out of earlier work that was originally inspired by the
practice of decorating one's home with hunting trophies - the use of the animal
as ornamentation for interior spaces.
Rodents are by turns considered disease-ridden vermin, culinary delicacies,
and cuddly pets. While they are among the animals most likely to be found
within homes and buildings (whether welcome or otherwise), rodents are not
often seen in architectural ornamentation or the decorative arts. I based
the designs for these pieces on traditional ornamental rosettes and grotesque
masks, incorporating the noses and mouths of rodents.
This series was first installed at Artisan Gallery in Paoli, Wisconsin in 2008.