Donna Rosenthal

Artist Statement

as an artist, i observe and examine the nature of relationships, gender roles and societal positions in today’s world. using text, repetition and the cultural symbolism of clothing, i reveal the struggles between the internal and external self, boldly expressing conflicts and joys that exist both individually and between the sexes. as a child, i explored creation and art making with limitless untraditional craft materials from my parent’s display store. these “toys” triggered my imagination and would later play an important role in the connection between my choice of content and material, and the development of my own language for personal art making.

i choose to work with mixed materials that bridge the gap between art and craft. most often i deconstruct vintage textiles and printed material such as magazines, cookbooks, music sheets, romance novels, comic books, catalogs, and maps. they are then transformed into elaborately constructed dresses and suits by using cutting, folding, sewing and gluing. i also knit or crochet a variety of metal wire, including silver, nickel, brass and copper. each piece is then embellished with embroidery, trim, buttons, costume jewelry, glitter, and hardware store items.

another key aspect of my work is carefully chosen text— alternately tender, ironic, humorous, pointed and powerful. i use it as a tool for connection and social commentary, challenging and redefining the notions of identity and personal choices.