Play, Awe & Questions for Looking Inward - Donnabelle Casis

Statement: I am fascinated by visual perception and how meaning is derived from what we see. I look for hidden geometries which may connect discrete perspectives to form a greater whole. My current paintings explore the relationship of personal identity to visual systems of signification in both ancient and modern cultures. I draw from various sources such as Filipino tribal tattoos and textiles, facial recognition software, cosmology and the philosophy of metaphysics, among others. Filipino tribal imagery is tied to storytelling, marks of accomplishment, and societal roles. Facial recognition software maps physical characteristics which determine one’s visual identity. My interest in the tangible universe and what transcends experience helps me understand my place in the world and beyond.              

  

Bio: I am a Filipina-American artist living and working in Western Massachusetts. I earned an MFA in painting from the University of Washington in Seattle. My work has been exhibited in museums and galleries across the US and abroad at venues including Platform Gallery, PULP, Albany Center Gallery, Tacoma Art Museum, Newport Art Museum, among others. I have received numerous awards and grants, including the Neddy Artist Fellowship for painting granted by the Behnke Foundation and grants from the Northampton Arts Council/Massachusetts Cultural Council. My work is included in several public and private collections.