Artist As Inventor Inventor As Artist Art As Invention Invention As Art

Abstract: In acting as both an artist an inventor I have created many things; some are inventions, while others can be viewed as works of art. My work involves the creative process and results in objects or devices that may or may not be useful, yet may be conceptually or aesthetically pleasing. Often my ideas start with inspiration from my life experiences. Those experiences spark my desire to create and reflect my ideas on culture or concepts. I begin an artistic piece or an invention by brainstorming, jotting various notes and drawings in my sketchbook. Eventually, my ideas begin to take shape. Elements of art such as the mediums to use and design basics are primary considerations, yet as I progress I think of modifications. When I think of a practical modification, my piece changes from art to invention and my role melds from artist to inventor. For me the roles of artist and inventor are not in conflict; rather I feed off of the merging of these professions to create my work. Many of my works are created by the combination of two or more previously existing 'samples' to make a third "new" object. However, some of the things I've made not only combine several pre-existing 'samples' in the work, but are also the combination of both art and invention.