The Power of an Object. Identity through Object.

The Power of an Object. Identity through Object

One of my life- time interests is collecting vintage, antique and found objects. I believe, through objects, stories can be told, and through imagination, new ones found.

Objects and their stories, often inspire my art making too. I deconstruct items for sculpture. Old clothing and antique quilts, are often used in textile pieces, artist books and collage. Aged  surfaces and patinas of collections, make their way into my abstract paintings, too.

Lately, I have been asking myself a few questions about, collecting and identity. Especially after the passing of my mother and step father a few years ago, when I had the huge task, of cleaning out their house and shed. Overwhelming at times, some of the hoard, has found it’s way into my life & studio

 Having known my mother for over 6 decades and my step father not long (5yrs) I’ve discovered, through their belongings and objects, a hidden or, and sometimes new identity.

Over the years, I've found myself imagining a kind of make-believe identity — one shaped not by stories or memories, but by the objects they collected. It’s led me into a line of questioning: do we ever really know a person while they’re alive, or does that understanding shift once they’re gone? Can things — everyday, overlooked objects — offer a different way of seeing someone, or even ourselves?

Through belongings, is it possible to feel a new kind of connection, and can these objects subtly reshape how identity is felt, remembered, or reimagined? Strangely , I now find myself imagining, a new “make believe identity” through the objects they both collected and hoarded especially, my step father.

Have you ever found yourself understanding someone differently through the things they left behind? Or noticed how certain objects quietly shape how you see a person, a memory, or even yourself?

I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.

Until next time,
Jenny Davis