Artist Statement

My work reflects my personal journey and a study in balance: the interplay of opposing forces that merge to create something profoundly human. These forces, at times distinct and at others intertwined, serve as the foundation of my creative process. I layer non-controllable paint applications such as pouring and dripping with more deliberate techniques like hand-cut stencils and classical oil applications, orchestrating a harmonious equilibrium. This balance is echoed in the mediums I use; shellac, resin, and spray paint evoke chaos, while acrylic, ink, and oil paint bring order to the canvas.

This body of work originated from a personal experience: my diagnosis with Cushing’s Disease, a rare condition that profoundly affected my health. Initially born out of the need to express the turmoil of illness, my art became a vehicle for navigating the complexities of life and death, sickness and health, order, and chaos. As I confronted the prospect of neurosurgery, my paintings reflected my despair and hope, turmoil, and tranquility. Symbolic elements such as architecture representing my body, derived from Pieter Bruegel the Elder’s renditions of the Tower of Babel, and the hexagon symbolizing illness, derived from the protein structure representation of cortisol, imbue each piece with layers of meaning.  Even now, every visual element has a meaning.

Though rooted in adversity, this body of work has evolved beyond trauma, now serving as a testament to resilience and growth. I have the hindsight of seeing the positives that emerged from the darkness. I often find myself reworking older paintings with the mindset of “yes, that was terrible, but look what came out of it”.

Growth No. 1

March 2, 2016

Communication #3

December 20, 2015

Anfractuous no. 6

August 8, 2015

Growth No. 2

December 17, 2014

Jubilee

August 31, 2014

Untitled

July 12, 2014

Ghost

January 9, 2014

(Telamonian) Ajax

January 3, 2014

Canal

February 3, 2013

Leap of Faith

February 3, 2013

Atlas

February 3, 2013

Up and Down (triptych)

February 3, 2013

Split

February 3, 2013

Lantern

February 3, 2013

Conch

February 3, 2013

Golden Arches

February 3, 2013