Artist Statement
I grew up in rural West Virginia, a state devastated by coal mining. My sister and I used to play in abandoned strip mines as children. At a young age I became aware of the often confusing and uneasy relationship between the states citizens and coal mining companies. These conflicting attitudes toward land use cause me to question how we humans fit into the natural world.
I am continually uncovering ways in which people deny their connection to nature. My work reflects the many manifestations of this denial as a way to better understand it.
Bio
Davin Watne is an artist based in Kansas City with an established record of professional achievement. He received his BFA from the Kansas City Art Institute and his MFA at Maryland Institute College of Art. He has been awarded the Charlotte Street Foundation Award, ArtsKC Inspiration Grant, Avenue of Arts Municipal Arts Grant, Art in the Loop Public Arts Grant and is a resident of the Studios Inc. Residency Program. Davin holds a fulltime lecturer position at University of Missouri Kansas City where he teaches 2D design foundations.