The desire to take up space, to be noticed and heard or conversely the desire to disappear is explored through the abundance of paintings of the word “NO” embedded in the richly textured surfaces of this installation. The varying sizes and depths each painting protrudes from the wall can be considered as records of individual attempts to assert a presence yet the fragile surface pattern, the muted pastel colours and the almost indistinguishable pronouncement of “NO” are weak and silent reflecting an incapacity to articulate. The repetition of the suppressed statement “NO” in a random configuration on an expansive wall is intended to emphasize a sense of necessity and urgency no matter how futile the results. The containment and lack of impact of the word “NO” is meant to suggest a struggle to assert one’s position or possibly the silence that masks domestic violence.

Each painting`s surface and sides are covered with cold wax and paint that has been applied with a palette knife. The results are low relief surfaces that reference aspects of the domestic environment such as ornaments and food. The images of ”NO” become visible with the patience of extended viewing.