Elaborative Encoding
PROJECTS: Elaborative Encoding
2007
blood on archival watercolor paper
15H x 15W inches
Elaborative Encoding explores the pattern and structure of the doily as a metaphor for the formation and degradation of memory. "Elaborative encoding" is a term used to describe the formation of new memories as they are encoded using information that is already known. Memories are formed and stored in association with one another, forming an elaborate "web" of related memories and knowledge.
©2007 Laura Splan


Incomplete Retrieval
PROJECTS: Elaborative Encoding
2007
blood on watercolor paper
11H x 11W inches each
Incomplete Retrieval explores the pattern and structure of the doily as a metaphor for the formation and degradation of memory. The drawings imply the patterns and structures of traditional doilies and resist interpretation of growth or degradation. The delicate lines fray off into intricate, nerve-like endings. The strands form the thread-like elements of the doily structure.
©2007 Laura Splan




Threads
PROJECTS: Elaborative Encoding
2010
blood on watercolor paper
22H x 22W inches each
In Threads each line is carefully drawn using undiluted blood as ink. The lines create an undulating textile–like pattern as they converge.
©2010 Laura Splan




Thought Patterns
PROJECTS: Elaborative Encoding
2003
blood on watercolor paper
12H x 12W inches each
Thought Patterns explores the narrative implications of blood through its physical qualities. The drawings reference neuroanatomical forms sometimes directly, sometimes loosely. Renderings of neurons, dendrites, Golgi cells, and other brain structures evoke the complex psychological and physiological responses our body has to outside forces. The forms of the brain structures act as visual metaphors for the extreme complexity and delicate fragility of the human body.
©2003 Laura Splan







