Modern Monsters (2022)

Modern Monsters is an exploration of the connection between the modern phenomenon of cyber bullying, described as trolling, and the etymology of the term in Norse folklore.  Using self-portraiture and still life and tableau form, the series explores the cause and effect of trolling, relative anonymity of the abusers and exposure of the victims, all the time blurring the lines between the roles.  The work seeks to reveal the relationship between the classical tales of those who seek to do physical harm, as told to children over the centuries, with the very real threat that hides within the modern technological world.

Artist Statement Modern Monsters is an exploration of the connection between the modern phenomenon of cyber bullying, described as trolling, and the etymology of the term in Norse folklore. Using self-portraiture and still life and tableau form, the series explores the cause and effect of trolling, relative anonymity of the abusers and exposure of the victims, all the time blurring the lines between the roles. The work seeks to reveal the relationship between the classical tales of those who seek to do physical harm, as told to children over the centuries, with the very real threat that hides within the modern technological world.