The Art of Autotopography Through Mementos

Autotopography is a term coined by historian Jennifer A. Gonzalez that describes the action of utilizing objects to map the “self.” We employ autotopography through the mementos we choose to surround ourselves with. When a person attaches a meaning to an otherwise ubiquitous object that item suddenly becomes spectacular solely to that individual. In this presentation, I will discuss my artwork on autotopography that studies organic and constructive forms of materializing memory. I do this through the creation of sculptural ceramic mementos which I glaze onto ceramic concrete topographical maps; thus, grounding the symbolic objects in a particular place and time. Through my work, I aim to engage my viewers in appreciating the authenticity of autotopography and its unique role in each person's life.