Erik Lijzenga MFA

"With this research study I am trying to better understand the need that we as humans have to collect things around us. What do these objects mean? Where do they come from? Where do they go? This fascination is spurred on by my own habit of collecting. Over the past few years I have built up a large collection of necklaces and beads, but also found objects, coat hangers, glass objects, precious materials, mysterious artifacts, sentimental tools...

In every chapter an object from my collection, or a story relating to the collection in general is a lead into delving into a specific aspect of collecting, with references but also personal reflections, as a result of a focused analysis.

The intention of this research into collecting is meant to give me a better grasp on the different qualities and aspects found in the objects within my collection. With more knowledge and a conscious understanding of these objects I am better equipped to navigate a body of work that involves them.

One thing that has been clear to me from the very beginning of this process of collecting is the complexity that can be found just below the surface of each and every object that we find in our surroundings. Whether it can be found in the production process that has either left obvious or barely visible traces on or in the object, the circumstances in which an object has been found or a deep and emotional connection to an object that elevates it from an everyday object to an artifact of immeasurable value."

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