I view “Art” as a form of creative communication, which could include movement, sound, text, tactile, and visual objects. Because all of these are technologies or modes of expression, I don’t think it makes sense to limit “Art” to a specific discipline(s). Art encompasses many different forms; likewise, it is neither the tool nor the discipline that defines Art. With that in mind, I may be described as a dedicated artist with purpose and high quality products. I am not interested in following fashion or fad, nor do I want to lull my viewers into escaping from life's daily problems.

At the conceptual level, my mission is to question and lead the public to debate and resolve sociopolitical obstacles.  Some of my works may be considered anthropological, documenting traditional elements of the Arab-Islamic cultures as well as the struggle of the indigenous people in the region.  Other images are of a highly political nature, challenging some of the current conditions of the indigenous people as well as my concern about the impact of Modernization and the invasion of Western values on the cultures of the Middle East and North Africa.

          At a formal level I approach my art as a scientist and a philosopher. I am "objective," direct in approach, yet always questioning. I am comfortable with the stylistic classification of my work as "contemporary realism." I mix realism and impressionism to create my own style, which suits my subjects and carries my concepts further than either style would alone. Though I do not believe in "truth," I am always striving to find it, capture it -- possibly create it in my work.

 

JoAnna Almasude M.F.A.
Teaching portfolio – The Art Institute of Pittsburgh

almasude@gmail.com
jpettit-almasude@aii.edu

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