the Artist Statement

of SEAN HOTTOIS M.F.A.

My work focusses on technology as the media and implement. I intend the viewer to experience my art in a non-traditional way. This non-traditional way manifests itself by responding to the viewers presence or actions. When appropriate the work rewards the viewer for participating in a variety of ways.

As with many artists my life experience colors the art I create. I was born into a theatre family, but have no interest in being an actor on display. However, I do enjoy providing an interesting experience to those who seek to be entertained. This desire stems from my stagecraft experience which filled my summers and holidays from birth to college. During that time I worked with my father and attained many stage design and lighting skills. Those times spent working with stage props, scenery, and lighting are remembered with great warmth and regard which is present in my current work. In that work I seek to engage the audience by allowing the art to play the role of actor, and also encourage the viewer to become an active participant in the experience.

Though I started in print design, my professional focus is in web and interactive design. The core of web design is layout and typography regardless of the technology used to generate it. It is the combination of visual design and supporting technology that provide my connection to my artistic roots. I am passionate about this form of graphic design as it can employ light, motion, and audience interaction. Plus, it does so on the time scale of the viewer. The typography and imagery can create varied levels of ambiguity which can entice a viewer. The viewer can then begin to imbibe a message via their own exploration and participation. To envelop the spirit of my youthful artistic growth: the type, graphics, and sound become the actors. The scripting and coding become the stage hands and do the invisible heavy lifting. The two parts have their distinctive languages, but once mastered they become a complex and fulfilling medium from which to implement my art.

Thank You,

Sean Hottois