The Gallery Will Present the Works of
Martha Hapeman

The Artist's Personal Statement

In these post modern times where fragmentation and separation in society and among families are common, my family structure with its close bonds and many members makes for an unusual family life. The emphasis of my work is to tell a story about my family and the continuous activity that would be found in my house as one of ten children. I made personified furniture that represents certain family members and specific activities that they enjoy together. I have chosen furniture because of the ability for a large audience to connect with the forms, at least on some level. Nearly everyone has had some kind of relationship to a piece of furniture at some point in his or her lives. It provides comfort, which in turn offers a sense of security. Some people actually give names to and are possessive of specific furniture pieces in a household: "my bed," or "the easy chair."

The main influence of my work comes from fantasy films by Disney Productions and the vision of director Tim Burton, more specifically, "Beauty and the Beast" and "The Nightmare Before Christmas." Each conveys a feeling of fantasy and enchantment through lavish sets and scenes capturing a specific mood. Plus, the audience is not just limited to children; there is enough sophistication in the set and dialogue for everyone to enjoy.

I am also inspired by the Art Nouveau period with organic plant and flower-like qualities, and by Victorian furniture with the exaggerated use of patterns and elaborate arms and legs in their construction.

With the world changing so rapidly, and society along with it, there seems to be a need to tell our own stories. These seem to help us understand the mysteries that can't be explained, and I believe they give us insight to our relationship with others and to the confusing world in which we live. My story illustrates an aspect of my upbringing with my strong connection to my family. I believe that families can create positive relationships in an otherwise confusing society if compassion and love are the main focus.

Back to Created Uniques