Melanie Word

Pals

Thesis Statement

Through this body of work, I capture moments of connection with family and friends who are close to me. These 8” x 8” paintings serve as metaphorical portraits of my loved ones through the representation of their comfort object. I dove into the research of the psychology of comfort objects and gathered treasured stuffed animals from my mom, sister, aunt, friend, thrifted some plush toys, and dug up old forgotten bunnies and monkeys from the storage unit.   

Through multiples and small scale, I work with the idea that every relationship we have is complex and multilayered and cannot be singularly defined. I utilize scale and composition in conjunction with observational painting to highlight an intimacy that is shared between the stuffed animal’s owner and myself.  Cropping engages the concealed facets of their identity that they choose not to show. Light, specifically colored lighting, is important in revealing parts of the owner’s personality and how I regard them. These paintings push the parameters of the traditional still-life and portraiture to create something inclusive of each genre.   

Our relationships are made up of different moments, some good, some bad, but that is what strengthens our connections. I hope the viewers of my work can walk away from these pieces feeling lighter than before and with a new sense of connection with your friend, your mom, or even a stranger. 

Untitled, Oil on Paper, 8" x 8", 2024