Artist Statement
My artistic practice is deeply process-based, reflecting the fluidity of my experiences. Through collage, painting, and book arts, I weave together fragments of my identity, emotions, and thoughts, creating layered narratives that invite viewers to engage with the subtleties of my journey.
As a mixed media visual artist, my work is a profound exploration of my internal and external experiences as a queer person navigating the complexities of chronic pain and persistent mental health issues. Each piece I create serves as a dialogue between my lived realities and the world around me, allowing me to translate my struggles and triumphs into visual form.
In books that I create, I explore the concept of storytelling and intimacy, crafting tactile experiences that encourage reflection and connection. Each piece is an invitation to engage with the narratives that shape our identities, particularly those that are often marginalized or overlooked. Collage becomes a metaphor for my own sense of self—comprised of diverse elements, often juxtaposed, yet harmoniously intertwined.
Painting allows me to express the more visceral aspects of my emotions, using color and texture to convey feelings that words often fail to capture. The act of creating is both therapeutic and cathartic, a way to confront and process my pain while also celebrating resilience and hope.
Through my art, I aim to foster a sense of understanding and empathy, highlighting the beauty that can emerge from vulnerability. My work is a testament to the power of creativity as a means of coping and a celebration of the richness of queer experiences. I invite you to join me on this journey of discovery, where art becomes a bridge between our individual struggles and our shared humanity.
Unspoken, 2023
Found objects, collage, polymer clay