School of Art and Design Alumni Exhibition 2021

Amber Watts
Graduated 2016

My work is a poetic visual expression of exploring the visceral. I investigate the sometimes-disguised characteristics of basic human desires, such as longings for sex, food, power, and acceptance. Mundane situations and circumstances of my individual experience, as well as the permeating aspects of contemporary American culture inform the work. The overarching theme of desire is dissected within various subcategories including memes, parenthood, advertising, erotic fantasies, and fast food. The work is created through a process of layering images and ideas, so that some thoughts are revealed, some are veiled, and others disappear completely. Tactile surface textures are combined with detailed imagery and text to generate visual interest and offer a conceptual challenge. My aim is to sift through clues that may lead me to a better understanding of how to live a better life in a society of Just-Add-Water-Instant-Artificial-Blueberry-Biscuit-Mix. The work is the result of this sifting. Experience the work at amberdwatts.blogspot.com or instagram.com/amberdwatts.artist

The Grin and Bear It Expectation, Mixed Media on Panel with Cicada Nymph Shells, 38″ x 32″ x 3.5″, 2019

Detail Image