Elyse-Krista AnnaMarie Mische

Statement

My creations are time capsules that preserve personal and non-personal, real and fabricated memories and experiences. I deconstruct barriers that separates human beings from acknowledging and talking about existential issues. Creative engagement with older adults is an integral component to my practice providing exchange of wisdom, perspective, and history. Thanatology (Death Studies) drives research in a multitude of contemporary and historical ideas; philosophical, religious, scientific and other perspectives on living and dying inform my work and reflect diverse viewpoints. Birds have been cross cultural symbols of otherworldliness for centuries and are placed in my work as higher powers and conduits to help others more universally connect with the narrative. Make-believe, childhood crafts, and processes introduced by my elders evoke a sense of nostalgia while tactile mediums fuel interaction. This approach allows for physical, intimate engagement with the artwork and associated ideas. I want to draw people into death positivity, encourage them to get face to face with their mortality, and I hope to create a welcoming space for people to consider and share their own beliefs.

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.