LOVE ME LOVE ME SAY THAT YOU LOVE ME!
In the midst of the winter lockdown, when I was due to be travelling through Mexico, an entity now known as “Steve” emerged in paint. He came seemingly out of nowhere and has been present in my work ever since. A presence I’ve found unsettling and somewhat ridiculous. Despite trying to kill him off, he’s become as resilient as he is colourful, appearing in numerous guises and predicaments. Manic, often crying, he’s nostalgic, likes to dress up and be silly, travel the world and isn’t afraid of a bit of controversy. It’s even got to the point where people ask me how he is. A scenario that I find beyond comical yet at the same time intriguing.
I’m asked regularly if “Steve” is actually me to which my knee jerk response is “Christ, I hope not” but I’ll admit there’s a strong resonance between us. There are days where I love him and days I hate him. Our evolving relationship is both bizarre and confusing but I’ve become resigned to the fact he isn’t going anywhere. A therapist would have a field day with this no?
This diorama is a further step in accepting his presence and is inspired by the Mexican tradition of the Nicho. A form of folk art I’ve become fascinated with whilst researching my eventual escape to Mexico…
White Paper Pen
'Love Me Love Me Say That You Love Me' Wood, Clay, Paint, Paper, Swarovski Crystal 10cm x 10cm x 10cm 2021.
Love Me Love Me Say That You Love Me (2021)
White Paper Pen is the studio of Folkestone based artist Steven Aron Williams. His work encompasses ideas about identity, politics, mortality and commemoration, bound together in a style which finds its origins in the cartoons of his childhood. Travel and popular culture are also recurring themes. He sees his practice as an introspective process underpinned by anxiety, ageing and a dark humour ; an attempt to make sense of the world and his place in it.
Love Me, Love Me, Say That You Love Me is an extension of the exhibition entitled “Self” at the Eight Squared Gallery, Folkestone from the 28th Oct - 8th Nov.
25th October - 14th November
The Pocket Gallery / Payers Park Community Garden / Folkestone
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