Gregg Cassin
Artist Statement
My work is an attempt to honor the sacredness of the human spirit. I work with images that illustrate the creative power of suffering ( ie. oppression, loss and illness) and its ability to transform us. These works often use images of “strangers” (children, women, people of color... representing outsiders) that have been cast-off and later rescued. And they become unlikely icons speaking to us of our innocence.
The tradition of icons is that they be used in prayer....praying with eyes open allowing the sacred to enter our hearts. And we then enter another world.
But my work is also a practice of spiritual reclaiming. Stealing back from this world and modern religion what is most dear to us...our sense of self. Creating art for me is about having a voice and talking/taking back. The oppressive powers of this world, esp. religion and mainstream culture on the marginalized are fuel to my fire. The overwhelmingly destructive force of religion and its spokespeople, is present in our daily lives. Prejudice, hatred and intolerance are not only accepted, but are honored and revered. My work is my voice and it is...part scream... part song... part cry... part prayer.