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Academic Level at Time of Creation
Senior
Date of Creation
Fall 11-7-2025
Artist Statement
The United States foundation is built on laborers and the importance of sacrifice. My Dad and my Grandaddy provided for our family by working construction and building custom cars for many years. Their hard work provides a prosperous and fulfilling life, but it takes a toll on their bodies. My work explores the softer side of manual labor. Through watching and working beside them, I have learned the value of hard work. Through depictions of trade work in my paintings, I connect to the shared experience of living in the rural United States and cultivate an appreciation for these labors of love.
By painting and putting long hours of work into my paintings, I feel as though I am fully connecting to my work. All these paintings are photo-based and focus on naturalism, some of which I took myself and others are from years back. Like Honoré Sharrer’s, Tribute to the American Working People, my paintings elevate these contributions. I am inspired by her work and other artists that shed light on similar topics. I am also inspired by local artist, Jennifer Fairbanks and her use of naturalism and portrayal of still life's.
Through my application of the paint, I convey the feeling of ruggedness through texture. This can be seen on the top of the toolbox shelf and is related through the paintings that are on physical pieces of metal. I have spent many hours in the shop with my dad and him the same with his dad, and that is what makes this series so personal to me. These paintings commemorate moments spent with family, foundation of American people, and aspects of rural life.
Advisor/Mentor
Rebecca Williams; Jessica Fife; Jeanne Beaver
Description
I used canvas and oil paint for the majority of my works. I incorporated acrylic paint on metal and bookbinding materials as well.
Recommended Citation
Provine, Bailey D., "The Weight of Work" (2025). B.F.A. Practicum Exhibition (ART 498). 156.
https://digitalcommons.murraystate.edu/art498/156