The Convergence of Parallel Tangents

In mathematics, a tangent is a straight-line that extends from a point along a curve, usually a circle. Imagine that you are following a circle and that your progression is smooth, regular and constant. At every point, you are acted upon by a force, which pulls you inward toward the center of the circle. As you continue to trace your circle, you suddenly are pulled by an outside force, which causes you to leave your circle. Now free from uniform circular motion you embark on another path. You have 'gone off on a tangent'. In my studio practice, I attempt to recognize the outside force where it exists so I can diverge from my original motive or course and take the tangent instead. Like my studio practice, my pedagogy is predicated upon the belief that mature, sophisticated and socially relevant artwork comes from an ability to integrate and synthesize knowledge across a wide frame of references as well as collaborate in a variety of ways to make the most out of this knowledge. (Author abstract)