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Nan Goldin’s book of autobiographical photos, The Ballad of Sexual Dependency, inspired a body of artwork and show titled “Surviving on one pure thought a day” (Rena Bransten Gallery, San Francisco, 2019) in which I portray animals in situations similar to those of the people in Goldin’s photos. Goldin’s photographs show a gritty, outsider world that I understand, and using animals as subjects makes it simpler for me to reflect human experiences. This graphite on paper drawing, “A Romantic Vision of Survival and Mirth,” depicts spider monkeys having a luxurious picnic. It speaks loudly of sexual freedom, embracing one’s personal idea of beauty, and unselfconscious self-identity. The fruit, the hints of sexuality and the orchids all have personal innuendo and meaning for me. I appreciate subtle humor, oddity, edginess and a sense of the absurd, as I sneak in pieces of my own life’s story.

Tara Tucker

taratuckerart@gmail.com