Charity Henderson - the psychology of concealment

Other than your art practice what other work do you do? I have been knitting for more than 20 years. I have recently started designing my own garments, which has been incredibly exciting and creative. Because art can sometimes thrilling one day and frustrating the next, I find it necessary to a secondary pursuit which is just consistently “fun” and relaxing.

Do you have a day job? What is it? What does it mean to you? I work with individuals with mild to moderate dementia as a day job. It is in turns touching, frustrating, and heartbreaking. I am always moved by the individuals who are still aware of the implications of the disease and yet are determined to live life to the fullest even as their minds fade.

Have you had to make sacrifices in order to live your life as an artist? When I decided to work part time and pursue art seriously, I cut my income to only a third of my previous salary. It’s a very different lifestyle. I often hear “live the dream,” but the financial reality must be considered seriously. For now, however, I feel this was right choice, even if I can’t continue it indefinitely.

Do you encounter misconceptions about being an artist? Many people think that artists can draw anything, in a matter of minutes, without a reference. I wish it worked that way. . .

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My portraits explore the psychology of concealment. What kind of inner life lies beneath the seemingly calm facade of a face? Memories? Fears? Longing?

I work with a multimedia layering process, utilizing the translucent properties of mylar/ Duralar. This method mirrors in technique the thematic questions my work explores.