Elissa Heim
Thesis Exhibition
Anderson Gallery
April 25 - May 3, 2025
As an artist and rock climber inspired by the majestic boulders of New England, I create boulderscape oil paintings capturing their serene beauty and geological significance. My work is a tribute to these remarkable formations, which I view not as obstacles, but as profound opportunities to connect with nature and oneself. My creative process is both a physical adventure and an emotional exploration. I immerse myself in the environments where these boulders reside, hiking, climbing, reflecting, and sketching. As I traverse these natural spaces, I collect materials that embody the essence of the boulders, such as sand and dirt eroded from their surfaces—what I refer to as the rock’s DNA. This hands-on approach confirms my understanding of their identity and informs my artistic expression. The DNA, gold leaf, and metallic pigments are mixed into a monochromatic palette to symbolize sacredness and instill visceral emotions of tranquility. My work expands to include sculptural elements and multimedia projections, allowing me to meld storytelling with the dynamic nature of climbing. This thesis draws inspiration from 19th and 20th-century sublime landscape paintings, land art, ecological art, and the tradition of Chinese Scholar rocks. It endeavors to exhibit a sanctuary composed of boulders, inviting viewers to recognize their intrinsic beauty while fostering stewardship for the preservation of these historical environmental relics.
-Elissa Heim