Cracks in the Temple brings interpersonal relationships to the fore, focusing on the nuanced ties between personality and perception. This series of mixed media works features portraiture as well as a select group of abstract compositions highlighting the alchemy of group dynamics and individual energies bound together. Cracks in the Temple reflects the intimacies of built communication and hard-won trust while simultaneously accepting and embracing natural power shifts and dualities.
Each portrait in Cracks in the Temple considers the individual’s tastes and priorities as well as their belief systems, personal talismans, chosen icons, and aesthetic symbols. The layers of traditional papers, gemstone chips, beads, and other objects reflect facets of these histories. One carved paper composition may incorporate embedded currency to echo financial striving and stability, while another uses hues of orange to draw attention to a core element of fire and rough surfaces to portray domineering tendencies. Taking cues from interviews, conversations, and interactions, a mixed tale of self-definition and outward perception begins to emerge. Collectively, the range of color palettes and variety in material combinations create a rich story of human connections that pulse with life.
Select works below.
Bonds expanded Cracks in the Temple to include a group of eight intimately-scaled abstract pieces, each reflecting the polarity of either chaos or order. She overlaid these forces within the construct of the four seasons, using seasonal color palettes and embedded objects to create a full spectrum that expands past the assumption of opposing dualities. Seeing them in contrast and in this broad and natural framework highlights their differences while acknowledging that in life these two elements often dance together. Both chaos and order are inherent in the universe and there are shades of gray as to how they manifest in individuals and societies.
For Bonds, chaos incorporates creation and movement, a swirling origin best expressed through a central void. The stacked layers open and unfurl, drawing the eye closer and allowing for a certain surrender and release. Order is more linear, clear, controlled and direct. The lines are reminiscent of scarification, reflecting the pride of survival. In many areas the process overtook and the paper layers were drilled down to the wood support. Gold paint now stands in to honor that history and strength.
