About

I experiment with layers and juxtapose paper, cloth, image, word, object, voice, and movement to express a story or moment. My wish is to stimulate others to remember their stories; to conjure a shared exploration.

In my artwork I seek to create experiences where the viewer is more directly involved. The pages of a large book become wings on a wall, sound and projected images invite sensory engagement. Transparent kimonos, mobiles and scrolls are suspended throughout a room. Embedded with images, objects and words, the series of dresses evokes facets of women’s lives. The environment provides a context for the work. 

Collaborative projects have included artists’ books with other writers; an evening of butoh dance within a tea house installation; a reading accompanied by double bass; Ancestors, Mothers & Muses included installation, reading and improvisational dance.

Publishing limited edition artists’ books, I endeavor to further stretch the meaning and form of “book.” Tres Chicas Books invited me to create a poetry book reflecting this exploration of form. The result was my thin-skinned wandering.

Conducting experiments with words and images, I see art as conversation. It allows us to listen and give voice to what is meaningful in our lives. I am committed to inspiring courageous creativity, to build a culture of connection in our world.

Kimonos have an inner lining and a public side. This series came to me out of the wish to wear my words and to reveal the complex aspects of women’s experience in the world.

— Piper Leigh