Written Wall by Loretta Bebeau

Loretta Bebeau looks at what she has created, then evaluates, and then takes new steps. A step will take her to another step. So far, the process has been produced by Loretta, but many artists work differently. Loretta learned by studying Picasso. Back when Loretta was a tour guide at the Walker Art Center during the Picasso show that was brought here in 1981 by Martin Friedman. Training was intense under Friedman. In Contemporary Art one makes work that reflects the time in which we live. Picasso (because the camera was introduced during his lifetime) wanted to do experimental painting, NEW painting.  

And that is Loretta's choice, too. She is inventive, rebuilding herself with each new work, each experimentation. Loretta chose to work with Wallboard...because she had done home remodeling. Starting simply with collages, then turned to drawing directly onto it, eventually painting, and creating from it.  

Wallboard/sheetrock represents Loretta. It’s a marginal material that is both needed and yet tossed away. The issues have never been about innocent beauty. Loretta's issues/options are dealing with defect and handicap. Loretta's art is somewhat political. Not about the people who rule the land, but she wants to influence, like one is influenced by entering a holy space with holy items placed in it.  

The art of the stenciled letters represent conversations that have not been heard. Her concept has evolved while working on each drawing/painting. The use of space and position turns into the most valuable part of each work. Tantalizing to test the edges of the boundary. Sending a message in written format or suggestive format. Testing in both medium and delivery. These are the things that interest Loretta.  

In these pieces Loretta has almost written and almost painted, and almost built something.