Faculty of Art

Drawing and Painting

Robbie Simpson

01 Dear Charlotte [DETAIL]

Dear Charlotte is a letter to my childhood self. It is an interactive community based piece constructed from second hand materials; materials from the community. It stands as an emergent exploration of my identity as a trans person; an attempt to physically manifest an extension of the home I have created within my body and soul; to welcome others from my community to connect; to help others feel at home. It is a painting; it is an installation; it is a self portrait.

“Scrappy in nature, built from found objects and second hand materials; I utilized elementary techniques of paper mache and playing with household recyclables to invoke a sense of nostalgia, as well as call back to my youth. I intended to use simple techniques, with common items, in order to create that sense of home and relatability. I sought out help from my father to construct a wooden platform, I only bought second hand, and scavenged for my other materials in recycling bins. Imagination/Intuition drawings let to the creation of the painting, The Grasslands, an idealized world existing outside of the constructs of gender; in which that imagery inspired the physical installation featuring, Baby Tree, Papa turtle, Moonie, and SunnieIt is a piece that is directly combating the uprising in Transgender discrimination in North America. It's my personal declaration that trans people are intrinsic within culture and society, that we have always and will always be here. It is a piece that invites people of all ages to have a seat and connect with others, it's a place to let your inner child run free, it's a space to feel hopeful in, it’s a space of empowerment and comfort. It’s a space that will continue to grow as an extension of myself, I am building a space for my community.”