The Doctrine of Signatures Theory states that the shape of the plant indicates its healing properties. Basic, repeating patterns found in nature support the belief of interchangeable substances. In The Light Is Waking exhibit, medicinal plants and the affected body parts are united on canvas and linen tapestries. The tapestry format supports an atmosphere of ancient learning. This sense of antiquity is juxtaposed with a modern mylar material. The mylar is cut and draped over the canvas, reminiscent of scientific, anatomical journals. The tapestries are illustrated on both sides and suspended at various heights and angles allowing the viewer the opportunity to meander through a hanging garden of botanical specimens and the human form.
Acrylic and graphite on raw canvas, linen and mylar, 40"h x 24"w each
How To Mend A Broken Heart
Venus Was Her Name
Separation
Laura Hair interprets the phrase, The Light is Waking as a form of physical transformation. A hypothetical moment in the history of evolution when plant life and humans mimic one another. Her works are an expression of grace and mysticism. Parts of figures emerge from a background of fluid earth tones. Lines drape invisible skeletal structures in a voluptuous and translucent manner. The forms arch and extend toward the edges of the painting as if experiencing a moment of transformation.
-Linda Paulocik, Director, The Station Gallery, Whitby