Elyse-Krista AnnaMarie Mische
Statement
Like a detective uses clues to solve a problem, I use my multidisciplinarycreative practice and Thanatology alongside interactions with people andplace to gain insight into existential issues. Equipped with art as a tool toovercome taboo, I explore the diverse ways we balance existence with non-existence while considering how we remember or want to be remembered.By mingling repurposed materials with childhood craft processes andcommon archetypes such as birds; art and the universality of these topicsbecomes a point of connection that encourages self-awareness and otherawareness. Ultimately, the impermanence of life, the inevitability of death,and the potential for afterlife can be components of ordinary conversation. Iask for a pause amidst the speed of time to appreciate the unknown andreflect on what it means to be here now... and maybe later in some nature oftranscendence.
BIO
Elyse-Krista Mische is a mixed-media artist who contemplates mortality, memory, and time through both independent and collaborative work. She embraces make-believe and craft processes from her childhood in combination with fine art practices to address individual and collective existential issues. Elyse-Krista hails from St. Cloud, MN and resides in Appleton, WI where in 2011 she earned a B.A. in studio art from Lawrence University. She is currently pursuing a Master of Science Degree in Thanatology (Death Studies) through Marian University. Elyse-Krista has been awarded multiple artist residencies throughout the United States and continues to show her work both nationally and internationally. She uses her personal art practice and Worry Birdä business alongside community-wide creative engagement to advocate death education, mental health, and support of older adults. Ongoing partnerships with the Fox Valley Memory Project, SPARK!, and senior caregiving facilitate this engagement and art programming opportunities for the elderly in her community. Recently, she was an artist in residence with PioneerCare and the Kaddatz Gallery of Fergus Falls, MN residing in an assisted-living community while providing art education to older adults. Elyse-Krista is currently the Artist in Residence at the Trout Museum of Art in Appleton, WI and serves as the Chair of the Appleton Public Art Committee where she advocates for inclusive and diverse public art opportunities. She looks forward to talking with you about art, life, death, and everything in between.