Con Teikirisi takes inspiration from the world of childhood imagination and the everyday objects that surround us, drawing from both personal memories and the immigrant experience. Watching my children play with their toys has been a significant source of inspiration, reminding me of the magic and meaning that can be found in the most ordinary things. I have always been attracted to unusual and interesting objects; things that tell a story through their form, their wear, or the ways they are used.
Meticulously constructed from up-cycled materials, these sculptures bring together elements of folk traditions, pop culture, and contemporary social narratives. The pieces reference the mundane aspects of life, such as grocery carts and sneakers, but by repurposing these objects, I aim to reimagine their significance. The everyday becomes extraordinary. These materials, much like the immigrant experience itself, are reshaped and given new life, reflecting both the journey of transformation and the desire to hold on to identity.
I have a magpie approach to my work, pulling from diverse sources; from childhood memories to street culture, and even the symbols we use on social media to express our status and identity today. The careful placement of objects, the choice of materials, and the overall aesthetic of the works create a dialogue about what we value and how we present ourselves, whether it’s through a traditional portrait or a contemporary filtered selfie.
Much like the traditional motifs in art history, the objects in my sculptures; shoes, mirrors, or wings, represent symbols of aspiration, transformation, and self-presentation. These objects, however, are presented through a reassessed narrative, challenging the viewer to reconsider the meanings behind them.
By merging the surreal and the familiar, my work creates a social commentary that reflects on memory, identity, and the power of reinvention. Rooted in my past, yet constantly evolving with the present, it invites viewers to explore these dualities and to reflect on the objects and symbols that define their own lives.