Memento Mori
2012
unique chromogenic photogram
90" x 90" (3 30" x 90" panels)
2012
unique chromogenic photogram
90" x 90" (3 30" x 90" panels)
Last week I installed Memento Mori in The Arthur located at 726 SW 11th Avenue in Portland, Oregon.
The Arthur recently opened for business and offers micro studios in the heart of downtown Portland for those wanting to live the urban lifestyle in the thriving west end. The Arthur is conveniently situated on 11th Avenue between Morrison and Yamhill in the heart of Downtown Portland. With the Streetcar running directly in front of the building and MAX lines running to the North and South, it's never be too far from all the city has to offer. Portland's West End offers plenty of attractions including City Target, Providence Park, food carts, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, boutiques, Portland State, and so much more!
Learn more about The Arthur here.
The owner of The Arthur said he selected Memento Mori because it is beautiful, pleasant to the eye, and he loves the philosophy of it. Additionally, color and light were an important part of the remodel of the building, which Memento Mori compliments well.
Memento Mori installed in The Arthur:
About Memento Mori:
Memento Mori is a Latin phrase that translates to "Remember your mortality." It is an artistic theme dating back to antiquity, and it refers to a genre of artworks that vary widely but which share a common purpose: to alter people to their ephemerality.
More than a work of art, Memento Mori acts as a catalyst for the human imagination to engage with questions surrounding the nature of life and death. It acts upon the mortal constraints of all people, and the finite, fragile boundaries of the human body.
Using the symbolism of nature, I created a triptych of a tree which illustrates new growth in the first panel, extends into full bloom in the second panel, and concludes with a third panel of dead branches and fallen leaves.
The tree exhibits a transitory beauty, an ephemeral symbol of mortality that engages the Earth as a living medium, and illustrates the passage of time.
The tree image is a living Memento Mori. Its purpose is to remind the viewer that death is an unavoidable part of life, something to be prepared for at all times. But the image of the tree also reminds us of something startling and important: life is meaningful, temporary, and sacred.
Thank you for viewing!
If you have questions or comments I would love to hear them.
Much love to you all!
If you have questions or comments I would love to hear them.
Much love to you all!
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