Maggie Delaney
As humans, we are part of nature, but the relationship between us is complicated. Many of us carry a sense of guilt; knowing our very existence is destroying the world around us. This fear pushes me to preserve these ephemeral moments so that perhaps they might not disappear quite so soon. It also inspires me to admire the smallest aspects that are frequently overlooked. I work in many media, both two dimensional and three, experimenting in differing modes to see what works best for the idea at hand. I begin with a subject, common weeds and insects for example, and decide how best to draw attention to these things, overlooked and forgotten about. When these objects are turned into art subjects, they are recontextualized and hopefully shift the way people see their relationship towards them. I want to remind people that all living things are vital in biodiversity and help sustain our world. In my recent works I have been preserving moments in nature by painting the shadows of leaves on paper, as quickly as they appear and then transform. This practice allows me to reflect on my surroundings and be present and grounded. It also makes me feel like I am collaborating with the sun and the trees, they are the artists as well as the art. I want my work to inspire others to appreciate these intangible moments and recognize that they are fleeting and in need of protection.
About the artist:
Maggie Delaney is a multidisciplinary artist based in Silver Spring, Maryland. She received her BFA in Painting at Salisbury University in 2018 and has since been pursuing her MFA at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. Maggie describes her art practice as a collaboration with nature. Her work is equal parts environmental research and personal connection to the earth, working in the veins of historical environmental art as well as experimenting with new ways to positively impact nature. Some common materials in her work are wood, clay, paper, and plant life. With a goal of sharing the overlooked aspects of nature with those around her, she highlights the undenying beauty and power in the common everyday parts of the natural world.
Reliquary
2020
Clay, wood, found, plants
14 inches x 9 inches x 2 inches
Diary Entry
2020
Embroidery on leaf, ceramic
Cabinet of Curiosity Backyard Weeds and Bugs
2020
Clay and wood
22 inches x 15 inches x 1-3⁄4 inches