Corn Drawing, 2011, cornmeal flocking and graphite on paper, 4×4 ft. This piece references the kolam of India; prayer drawings traditionally made each day by the women of the family with rice flour outside of the home. As I am North American corn seemed like a better choice for me. There is a long tradition of Native Americans using corn as a spiritual offering as well. The imagery is based on crochet stitch diagrams, echoing the geometric intricacy of the originals while making is cultural relevant for me. I couldn’t work with corn without thinking about the US’s obsession with genetically modified corn and corn products and the idea of food as a commodity. The kolam are meant to be eaten by insects and birds.
jessie lehson 