We’ve all felt it at some point—the strange and distinct shift from childhood to adulthood. Sinlessness to sinful. Purity to corruption. Whether it comes while re-watching old shows and noticing the dirty jokes or finally succumbing to the fact that the world is not merely black and white, we all know the sinking feeling that comes with the realization that things will never be as simple as they once were.
Kristin Simmons has portrayed the juxtaposition of childhood and adulthood throughout her career as a painter, printmaker and silkscreen artist. By taking popular artifacts that remind her of childhood (board games, toys, and advertising ephemera from the late 80s and 90s), she explores the relationship between “childhood innocence and adult cynicism.” This isn’t just an artistic pursuit driven by personal association with this memorabilia. Simmons is tackling some of our culture’s most hot-button issues with her work. In today’s political, social and economic landscape, art not only continues as a strong form of release, but it’s become an absolutely vital way of communication. Simmons’ fresh, but ultimately relatable, perspective is easily welcomed and acknowledged, especially by those of her generation. Not only do the subjects of her works really resonate with this group, both in familiarity and nostalgia, but she is allowing an often muted voice to be heard.
