Thinking Inside the Box

 

This piece (shown above) is one in a series I call 'Meditation Boxes' made from found items. I assembled the inner walls, drawers, and doors with scraps of mat-board and fabric and it is quite sturdy. It has a vintage bottle and glass communion cups that make it into a 'portable' and very personal box. It is available for purchase in my Etsy shop and is currently the most viewed item. See more images here.

 

Project for Beginning 3-D class

 

I was introduced to mixed media in Beginning 3-D Design class at WOU and I instantly fell in love! The materials and possibilities are endless. One project was named 'Confined Space' and was to be a personalized box. Our professor, JinMan Jo, did not say anything (that I remember) about Joseph Cornell. But lately, as I look at his work, I see similarities in the concepts.

 

 

 

I became interested in Joseph Cornell's works in May 2013 during a visit to the Portland Art Museum. I took a photo (allowed) of an interesting exhibit. In all honesty, at first I was only interested in the surname Cornell... my paternal great grandmother was a Cornell. I have done genealogical research and thought I would see if there is a connection. So far, I haven't found it, but I have discovered wonderful artworks, interesting stories, and inspiring designs.

 

Cornell Box at Portland Art Museum 

(photo by KmBennett Art)

 

Joseph Cornell (source)

A Cornell Box - Untitled (source)

 

 

Here are two more boxes I made as gifts. Read more here.

 

 

 

I made my boxes without the influence of Joseph Cornell's designs, but I do love his work! A few of his boxes are interactive, but most are not. They are confined behind glass to be seen only. Mine are different as I intend them to be used and loved. I also like to include fun little secret compartments. And now that I have researched, I have many more ideas and will be working on them very soon!