The Impermanent Self 2022
eight plaster casts 7''x5''x4'' 2022
In early 2022 I created eight small self-portraits and left them scattered throughout southern Ontario and Quebec, some underground others underwater, all hidden in places that were important to me during the pandemic when all indoor spaces were closed.
The work originated from the anxiety and dread I experienced during that time while working in person, rising a small child and keeping my elderly parents safe. I found that making art and thinking in terms of deep time could alleviate my worries about my own impermanence.
The small plaster busts are meant to lie undisturbed like time capsules where they will slowly be absorbed back into the earth.
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The porcelain self 2024
laser-engraved porcelain tile 6''x 8''
For this project, I a creating half dozen laser-engraved porcelain tile plaques, each buried or submerged in a public location of personal significance around Ottawa/Gatineau, Brockville, Kingston, and Toronto. Each plaque is marked with the date, biographical information. Unlike plaster casts, these plaques are designed to endure much longer and are meant to be eventually found. Some may be discovered within my lifetime, while others may not be found for many decades or even centuries. This project serves as both an art project, a time capsule, and a meditation on deep time.
If you find one of these plaques, I would love to hear your story of how you came across it and what the specific site you found it at means to you. Feel free to reach out and contact me at dvdmcdougall@gmail.com.