Layers of Paper, Layers of Meaning?

I am continuing with they mylar and layers playing with different colors, backgrounds and ways of creating and breaking space. Continuing to add hints of the real, or cartoon real with abstract shapes. I feel like I am gaining momentum. I do not usually spend so much time working small but for the moment it feels right, and that there is more to explore here.

I have continued to ponder and deliberate the question of why I make art. It is on my mind constantly. And although I do not have a fully articulated response, I feel like I am getting closer.

It seems that for me making art is at least partially about control. The ability to have complete control over something, from start to finish. I seek to control the uncontrollable in life, which is of course an impossibility, in art this is possible. It is also, I believe an attempt to create or provide for myself an escape, a fantasy world where things make sense. But in my art, like in the real world things do not make sense. There is always something distorted or wrong.

I am simultaneously representing the fantasy world of childhood cartoons in which I wish I lived or could escape to, and the nonsensical, terrible and disturbed nature of real life.

I will continue to ponder the question and my response to it.

3 layers - watercolor paper, old colligraphy paper and mylar  

Work in Progress

I intend to cut out each of these shapes, partially revealing the drawing beneath 

Experiments with under layers 

Little Layers Part 2 . . .

Over the last week I have been playing more with the mylar, and experimenting with the different types of backgrounds that can be used with them. Today I created a few small two colored "paintings"or drawings with paint which is probably more accurate. Wall paper and photos are other options I have explored and will continue to explore, as bases. I am also playing with limited color on the mylar. 

The thing I find most interesting about these little guys is the potential to play with the layers. To move and change them until they feel right.  I have included a few that I feel are complete along with several in process, that I will probably play with more. I have also included several of the same images in different orders/ with different backgrounds. 

I plan to experiment with building some simple frames this weekend and getting back into installation. 

Bases, drawings with paint 

Same drawings different background 

Many different versions all with the same base