In and ongoing series, “But they will not possess you, so much as you will come to possess them” I am documenting the deflation process of helium filled balloons, using them as metaphors for relationships and the ideas that surround them: reality and appearance, unity and plurality, attachment and detachment; exploring my own sense of loss and fulfillment, and the balloons overall connection to the human form. Observing the balloon as it cycles through a life of growth, deflation and decay, I capture, record and associate its connection to mortality and humanity. Making highly detailed graphite drawings and mixed media collages incorporating charcoal, liquid graphite and paper cut outs I am examining differences in shape, texture and weight, capturing the balloon’s impermanence, it’s metaphorical associations for the emotional and physical transformation of people and their relationship to each other.


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Heather Merckle