Lawrence Spezzano

Breaking Upward

Inspired by: Robert Adams, Bulldozed Slash Esther Solondz, Untitled (Rust Portrait) John Willis, Recycled Realities 1

dried Japanese knotweed stems, twine, and latex paint

70″ x 12″

2021

I am inspired by the unique shapes and structure of plants, especially invasive species, as they grow in and through our yards and communities. With infinite resolve, they spread into new spaces, even when we slash them back with tools and poisons. And the cycle continues with whatever remains from the wreckage. I often imagine how I feel in new spaces: scared, alone and defensive, yet persistent as I try to get a foot hold. As an artist, I work with whatever is available and enjoy building on the piece in whatever state it’s in! When I build with plant material, and I feel the brittle, fragile material give way, I quickly lash twine around the pieces, to keep it together, then add new material, and coat with thick paint, so the structure grows and stays together, in whatever form it becomes.