On the Edge of Creativity: Dot Bergen
This month, we hear from New England Wax member Dot Bergen and the science behind her creative work. You can find more information about Dot’s work at her website.
I take my inspiration from the natural world. Living in a rural coastal community, I’m surrounded by oceans and rivers, farmland and forests. The sights, sounds and smells that I encounter each day are fractals, and they drive my creativity. There is science behind the idea that fractals found in nature enhance creativity. A new field of science called Environmental Neuroscience confirms that being in nature increases creativity, focus, and productivity. In a nutshell, experiencing the mildly stimulating fractal sights, sounds, and smells that might prevail at a beach, park, or trail helps replenish the part of your brain responsible for executive functioning, focus, and creativity (also known as directed attention).
For me, nature is an inspiration for form and function. Formally trained in Zoology and Marine Ecology, I am intrigued by joyous bursts of natural encounters such as a cluster of coral, an aggregate of lichen, a cloud of butterflies, a school of fish. When I “see” nature, I pay particular attention to edges. In my daily studio practice, I’m also concerned with edges. More often than not, if I’m having difficulty getting a piece to resolve, it’s because there is a problem with the edges.
edges indeed. They are so often my problem too…
Great Post Dot!
So interesting to hear the inspiration and connections you find in science and nature. The sculptural work is beautiful and so enhanced by the lighting.
Wonderful work Dot! I’m especially drawn to your coral pieces!
Great to better understand your inspiration and process. I can see and feel nature in your beautiful work!
Your appreciation of the minutiae of nature translates so well in your art work. I hope it makes viewers look more closely at their surroundings. It reminds me of Georgia Okeefe. Thanks Dot
Dot, I love your blog! Just when I think I know you, I learn so much more about you! Fascinating! Appreciate your “edges”, as well, a current theme of mine, and the title of a show I’m doing with one other artist next summer. These LED sculptures are spectacular. Can’t wait to see what’s next for you! Thanks for writing.
Wonderful blog—thanks, Dot!
We really enjoyed visiting your studio in person during this past weekend’s SCA Open Studio Tour and hearing about your vision for your enigmatic art pieces and your innovative artistic process. It was truly inspiring.