Bio
Andrew J. McCauley’s work revolves around the effects that diseases like multiple sclerosis and epilepsy have on the body and mind. Atrophy and decline of the central nervous system is formalized as he incorporates parts of the human figure into a narrative landscape that act as a metaphor for memory loss. Characters are caught in the experience of nervous and circulatory system failure and, ultimately, a total loss of mobility. Each is surrounded by the deconstruction and fractioning of archetypal memories. The playful, intentionally unsophisticated forms act as a balance to lighten the heavy connotation of their decline. Everything in his work is handmade and originates from the term “simulacra,” meaning there are no collaged components, except when necessary.
The story of dilapidation is linear and traditionally read from left to right. Spaces between the forms or panels, symbolize the disconnection of the myelin sheath transmitting information, much like when the outer coating of a nerve cell begins to corrode. Amorphous, organic shapes that signify brain lesions creep in and over the canvas to reinforce the notion that these visual memories are being erased. McCauley’s work provides a dark, inverted assessment of a body transcending into a state of complete system failure.
McCauley was awarded his MFA from the Columbus College of Art & Design and received his BFA in painting and drawing from Ball State University, Muncie IN.