Windgate-Lamar Fellowship
2025
There is something about play that lightens and connects people in the simplest way. So, why did we stop playing?
I often reminisce on childhood—the ease of making friends and how simple it was to be kind to one another. As a maker and artist, I strive to preserve that spirit of connection in my work. I create interactive, multiperson furniture designed to bring people together. “Will you sit for a minute?” invites users to sit and look into each other’s eyes. The piece’s large scale, peculiar shape, and the vibrant pink shag carpet set the tone for play. Through my work, I want to rekindle the curiosity we had as children. The one that made puddles for jumping in, flowers for picking, and friends for hugging.
For many of us, toys played an integral role in our early development. They taught us social skills, patience, critical thinking, and gave us the joy of shared experiences. Toys are often my vessel to inspire whimsy in my viewers. “Infinity Cube,” “Prism Links,” and “Polly Spots” all rely on “teamwork.” They create moments of collective joy, allowing groups of people to experience a moment of wonder, not just individually, but together. It comes down to that same principle of play, bringing us back to the simple pleasure of being with one another—no judgment, no second-guessing, just the freedom to enjoy the present. Life through youthfulness is a kinder one; it is for that reason I try to unite people by encouraging viewers to get a little unserious with one another.
Selected works
“Polly Spots,” 2024, Baltic Birch ply, upholstery foam, cotton, tinted epoxy, 81 in. x 15 in. x 14.5 in. Photo courtesy of the artist.
“Will you sit for a minute?,” 2023, plywood, pine, shag material, 50 in. x 38 in. x 46 in. Photo courtesy of the artist.
“Wacky Tracks Snap-and-Click Fidget Toys for Sensory ‘Kids’–ADHD, Autism, Stress Relief Therapy–Keeps Fingers Busy and Minds Focused–Snake Puzzles, Assorted Colors,” 2024, white oak, 25 in. x 1.5 in. x 1.5 in. Photo courtesy of the artist.
“Prism Links,” 2024, Baltic Birch ply, birch dowel, 67.75 in. x 4 in. x 2 in. Photo courtesy of the artist.
“Infinity Cube,” 2024, Baltic Birch ply, birch dowel, 24 in. x 24 in. x 24 in. (cube formation). Photo courtesy of the artist.
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67 Broadway St, Asheville, NC 28801
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