My work explores themes of self discovery, especially as it relates to the absurdities of the human condition. Awkward moments, feelings of disconnection and ostracization, are a regular topic of study. Influenced by the fantastical worlds of fairytales and folklore, my imagery and short stories tend to exaggerate the mundanity of our collective existence.
Paintings
Dead Fish
Watercolor & Ink - Self Directed
9.5” x 7.5”
A portrait of my Father and I. It depicts my feelings of awkwardness in his presence. The background behind each of us is different to further the dissonance. He is awash with a golden light, while I exist in a watery, swirling and dreamlike state. His light manages to shine in my world as shown by the scattered bits of gold stars behind me.
Self Portrait
Acrylic on Canvas Board - Self Directed
8” x 10”
A self-portrait done in profile with a focus on what is consistent and unchanging about my appearance. My hair is always worn tied up. Rosy cheeks, fair skin and a strong brow are defining features. I’m typically dressed in dark clothing and turtlenecks, my face is full of lightness and color, a peek at what lies underneath the controlled way I present to the world.
Spatial Awareness
Acrylic on Board - Self Directed
5” x 7”
A portrait of a fictional survivor of a traumatic experience. His head rests upon a galaxy, and the dark hands of the universe wrap around him as a form of comfort and healing. It is a study of yearning for connection in times of deep distress; how we seek relief from loneliness, even if the relief comes from one’s own imaginings.
Ticonderoga
Acrylic on Canvas Board - Self Directed
8” x 10”
My Father and I stand on the deck of the massive historic Steamship called The Ticonderoga. It rests on the grounds at the Shelburne Museum in Vermont. There is a surreal quality to the ship which is beached on a field of grass that I attempted to capture. I added a subtle tilt to the scene, to make the viewer feel slightly off kilter, as you would if the boat was on the water. The sky is full of swirling clouds that also could look like hot fumes from the defunct chimney. To further a sense of unease I contrasted my concerned expression with my dad goofing off in the background.
Digital Works
Reflections
Digital with Procreate - Self Directed
A study of three different stages of my life. First as a child in grade school, second as a tween in middle school and third as a current senior in high school. The white bunny symbolizes my soul, my spirit animal. The string in its mouth connects the various stages, tying them together. It floats off in the distance, indicating there is more of me to come.
Me in Three
Digital with Procreate - Self Directed
A quick study of me in my three natural habitats - at home, at school and in my dreams. In my dreams I am able to wear my hair down and dress in a more colorful expressive way. I am my ideal self.
Protection & Intrusion
Digital with Procreate - Self Directed
Fictional characters from a broader story line I have created over the years. It depicts the moment the girl in the blue swimsuit realizes the girl next to her, someone she thought was a genuine friend, is really spending time with her at the direction of her Mother. It is at once, an act of protection and intrusion.
Beach Bums
Digital with Procreate - Self Directed
Fictional characters from a broader story line depicting a scene at the beach. The girls are platonic friends, yet each has a secret crush on the other. I explore how subtle expressions and flirtatious body language can convey the tension that exists between the two.