Artist Statement"What does it mean to be a "layerist" painter? My collage artwork is composed of many layers, each significant in the process of my art making. I use bits of torn magazine papers as my "palette of paint"working the image by adding and subtracting tonal values of this paper until I create the effect that I desire. Words, phrases, and imagery from the materials that make up the collage become visible upon close observation of the work adding to the meaning of the piece. I am continually amazed by specific words that appear almost magically between the torn edges as if they are themselves part of the creator of the artwork. Often I use unusual collage materials such as band-aids, maps, gum and candy wrappers, heirloom family photos, and sentimental letters from which to create my layered images. I hope you enjoy looking at my artwork as much as I enjoy making it." –Eileen Downes