Sumi Flores

It's Only Natural, 2024

Epoxy putty, foam, flocked fur

This piece explores the idea of societal expectations, cultural norms and the themes of nature versus nurture. What is the image, the costume, the facade that each member of society must put on or perform to function as amicably as possible? Are we truly what we present, or is the real you the one that is home alone, out in nature, or with loved ones? How much of our actions, emotions, responses and comforts are based on what we have learned and been nurtured by? What of our natural wants, needs and urges? Is one better than the other, does one way civilize the mind while the other turns us to barbaric beings? Are you the innocent bear or the tool he hides behind his back?

The artwork was created as a personal challenge and recent obsession in sculpture work, with the effort to combine low brow and high brow art aesthetics. I wanted to bring my illustrative style into a 3D medium, balancing the art of craftsmanship, visual aesthetics and postmodern ideas of delivering meaning through art. I feel contemporary/modern/postmodern artwork has a stigma when people hear the name. Usually met with eye rolling and under the breath comments when compared to classical or modern works considered outside the realm of “fine art”, such as animation, illustrations, comics/manga, tattoo etc. My piece aims to show that the idea of a message does not need to be sacrificed to create a visually appealing artwork that showcases craftsmanship.

About the Artist

I am a multidisciplinary artist who mobilizes elements of trade craft as part of an aesthetic approach that seeks to foster consciousness and awareness for viewers. In particular, I hope my work provokes emotional or intellectual reflections on topics including history, identity, knowledge and the inevitability of death.

My work is influenced by a mixed cultural background and the experience of growing up traveling to various states and countries. This resulted in an exposure to various art styles, food and histories which shape the aesthetic choices and themes I explore through my work. Warrior cultures, myths and legends – including historical figures such as Khalid ibn al-Walid, Thomas Lord Cochrane, and Batu Khan, as well as legendary units like the Ghurkas, Onna-Musha and the Companion Cavalry – are a particular emphasis and source of inspiration in my practice.

Through the use and combination of mediums such as painting, digital, sculpture, and

more, I explore these influences and ideas, as I strive to adapt and grow not only as an artist but as a craftsman, philosopher and human being.

@Peachmunkey