I am constantly mesmerized by the beauty of the world around me. Yet, I become easily frustrated when my attempts to translate what I see in painting or drawing lack that “something” that I am originally so drawn to. I am discovering that I like working in the abstract, creating my own objects, as I can learn to love them for what they are; free of comparison to the real world. Often when an idea hits, I can't let it go until I have at least attempted to bring it to life. Leaving no time for theoretical or conceptual work, I go right to the physical development of the original thought. Sometimes my idea is left in the dust as a new concept materializes itself in the 3D. I am coming to the realization that I love to work in the realm of sculpture as it allows my pieces to really interact and become a part of the environment in which they reside. Watching the lights and shadows move across my sculptures becomes just as essential to the piece as the materials themselves.

As my idea comes to life, I am able to contemplate the symbolism that it carries. I believe that my pieces often express an inner turmoil that I only become aware of later on in the process. 

I think that this piece, in particular, represents the results of introspection that has come over me during this time of crisis. Sometimes, I feel that my thoughts and emotions simply become too much and making something that requires experimentation, a bit of frustration, and some physical exertion feels needed. Making these sculptures has touched on the subject of emotional vulnerability and what it means for me to open up to others. Being honest about myself is often difficult, and I believe that my piece allows me to represent this fear in the 3D. The way in which the structures are closed in upon themselves, bring up this sense of isolation and inwardness that we are all currently experiencing. The cocoon-like configurations make me think of hibernation and staying tucked away at home; a theme that ties into our collective experience during this pandemic.