KAYE FREEMAN

In this collection of work which began soon after the pandemic of 2020, I examine the nature of death and rebirth through a series of Zen poems by Buddhist monks. Starting with large-scale paintings of flowers with a ghostly white shadow representing the constant presence of death in our lives. I then moved on to insects like moths and cicadas, which led me underground and to decomposition. This is where the Transformers series began. Like most of us, I have personally experienced loss and grief, as well as a couple of near-death experiences. I wanted to debunk the taboo and terror surrounding this subject in modern culture.

My work evolved as my studies into ancient wisdom deepened. I moved off the canvas and onto paper. Using a microscope and developing bacteria in my studio to observe, I began to capture

the miraculous details of transformation at a molecular level. On paper I could use colour pencils to capture detailed patterns, then layer those shapes with ink and acrylic paint.

Beginning with an idea or sensation I create an abstract drawing that then takes on the filaments of the bacteria and microbes I observe. The work then grows and takes on a transformation all of its own.

I was awarded the Juror’s Prize of 2024 at the annual works on paper at The Brand Library and Arts Center in Los Angeles for the drawing titled, The Ascension of Tubbsie. A drawing about the death of my dog.

As organic matter decomposes it is transformed into another kind of life out into the ether. This is an explosion; a celebration.

In these highly stylized and detailed drawings, I am celebrating the transformational quality in every aspect of daily life, as we let go of who we once were and lean into who we might become.

Band of Vices would like to dedicate Kaye’s exhibition to TUBBSIE