STATEMENT OF WORK

Eli Thorne's artistic expression transcends boundaries, inviting viewers into an abstracted realm where landscapes become a canvas for exploring his trans identity. Nature serves as both a sanctuary and muse, and through his paintings and sculptures, Thorne captures the healing essence of his time spent outdoors, encapsulating emotions that stem from his journey as a trans person. Bold, vibrant, and intuitively created, his art encapsulates the coexistence of contradictory emotional truths, sharing with the audience his fears, hopes, joys, and pains. Within these rich and vibrant worlds, one encounters fish out of water, tombstones, celestial bodies, and unknown multi-gendered plant matter, each symbolizing profound aspects of the trans experience.

Hailing from a blue-collar background in the Santa Cruz mountains, Thorne draws inspiration from domesticity, folk art, and working-class masculinity, which he reinterprets through a contemporary lens. His artworks are imbued with symbols and allegories, weaving autobiographical and fictitious narratives that explore the complexities of male identity in today's world. As a trans man, Thorne's creations are a tribute to the transformative process itself, rejecting the notion of a final destination and embracing the idea that perhaps home lies in the journey of becoming. Through his art, he invites viewers to witness the evocative tales of queer ancestors and oracles, offering a glimpse into a mythical and powerful narrative. Eli Thorne's body of work is a mesmerizing exploration of the multifaceted layers of identity, a testament to the enduring quest for self-discovery and acceptance.