Abstract

The work of Crystal Moore is a complex combination of dark and light as well as circular and organic patterns. The after effects of sexual trauma sustained in childhood carried over into adult life overshadowing her every action. Human nature is to protect self whether automatically or purposefully, consciously or unconsciously. Moore spent a great part of her life hiding who and what she was from others and even herself. This is exhibited in the work by dark, lowly lit areas featuring crocheted items using plastic bags created to protect and hide. The light inside is reflective of who she is and what there is to offer others but has been carefully hidden and disguised. Circular patterns using plastic bags which are wall pieces, and her old clothing in others which are floor pieces, are indicative of protection and security. The organic patterns, crochet flowers, tissue paper flowers and plastic bottle flowers, represent hope which Moore has always held on to. The body of work transitions from the dark areas into lighter, and ultimately very light areas. This is representative of her attempt through her work to tear down the emotional walls she had built around herself, not only allowing the light in her to shine on others, but allowing the light of others to shine on her as well. Through the process of making art and studying both the meaning and therapeutic nature of art, Moore is able to discover things about herself that will lead to emotional healing.

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