The following paper reveals some aspects of my thoughts about art. The works discussed are featured in my M.F.A. exhibition. All works are mainly based on the ideas of absence, self-reference and utilization in art practice, even though each piece approaches the subject from differing angles. My dissatisfaction with preconceived notions in the contemporary art, rooted in art history, has shifted my focus from concerns of the direct, physical presence of artworks to the indirect or indecisive elements of their context. From this position I have felt free to explore the paradox of self-reference that is involved in performance. In addition, by transferring art works to functional objects, I have found a way to infuse everyday life with my art, and vice-versa. The ambiguity of interpreting artworks with language means that I present this paper with photographic documentation of my artwork. Combined, this will give a clear indication of the thrust of my graduate studies and the current theatrical direction of my art.

Movement, whether conveyed through an actual motion or a gestured implication, remains an underlying theme in my creative process that started with my earliest works. I explored different aspects of kinetic sculpture, because I am seeking new ways to create motion such as experimenting with circulating air, wind, and the use of water features. I created a series consisting of three to five kinetic sculptures which do not rely on sound or direct viewer manipulation.

Installation view of work of art on Acrylic Plastic, and Latex Paint by artist Philip F. Samson as part of a 2022 MFA exhibition, entitled "Confluence" in the Environmental Education, Science and Technology Building Atrium on the main campus of the University of North Texas from April 4 to April 14, 2022.

Work of art on tree trunk and roots, acrylic plastic, latex paint by artist Philip F. Samson as part of a 2022 MFA exhibition, entitled "Confluence" in the Environmental Education, Science and Technology Building Atrium on the main campus of the University of North Texas from April 4 to April 14, 2022.

Detail view of work of art on tree trunk and roots, acrylic plastic, latex paint by artist Philip F. Samson as part of a 2022 MFA exhibition, entitled "Confluence" in the Environmental Education, Science and Technology Building Atrium on the main campus of the University of North Texas from April 4 to April 14, 2022.

Work of art on Acrylic Plastic, Wood, Acrylic Paint, and Metal Zippe by artist Philip F. Samson as part of a 2022 MFA exhibition, entitled "Confluence" in the Environmental Education, Science and Technology Building Atrium on the main campus of the University of North Texas from April 4 to April 14, 2022.

Detail view of work of art on Acrylic Plastic, Wood, Acrylic Paint, and Metal Zippe by artist Philip F. Samson as part of a 2022 MFA exhibition, entitled "Confluence" in the Environmental Education, Science and Technology Building Atrium on the main campus of the University of North Texas from April 4 to April 14, 2022.

Installation view work of art on Acrylic Plastic, plywood, and aluminum rivets by artist Philip F. Samson as part of a 2022 MFA exhibition, entitled "Confluence" in the Environmental Education, Science and Technology Building Atrium on the main campus of the University of North Texas from April 4 to April 14, 2022.

Side view of installation work of art on Acrylic Plastic, plywood, and aluminum rivets by artist Philip F. Samson as part of a 2022 MFA exhibition, entitled "Confluence" in the Environmental Education, Science and Technology Building Atrium on the main campus of the University of North Texas from April 4 to April 14, 2022.

Work of art on Acrylic Plastic, Metal Rack, LED UV Lights, and Plastic by artist Philip F. Samson as part of a 2022 MFA exhibition, entitled "Confluence" in the Environmental Education, Science and Technology Building Atrium on the main campus of the University of North Texas from April 4 to April 14, 2022.

Detailed view of work of art on Acrylic Plastic, Metal Rack, LED UV Lights, and Plastic by artist Philip F. Samson as part of a 2022 MFA exhibition, entitled "Confluence" in the Environmental Education, Science and Technology Building Atrium on the main campus of the University of North Texas from April 4 to April 14, 2022.

This thesis presents a body of work that acknowledges Rural American landscape and the importance of its conservation. This conservation is not restricted to recognizing the rural landscape as strictly a natural resource, rather, a spiritual place that fosters a positive side of humanity.