Optics
2021 | Mixed Media | 24 x 36 in
Serving as a reflection between the artificial and the natural, this piece looks at the form and function of optics and sight. Some elements include anatomy of a human eye, a microscopic view of the optic nerve, and a diagram of how the human eye casts an inverted image on the retina. I illustrated parallels between the dilation of the pupil to the aperture of a camera lens. Intertwined within an abstracted DNA double helix is binary code that reads “what if the natural is artificial and the artificial is the natural?” I believe the natural and artificial worlds may not be so disparate, but are intertwined and unified with one another.
As nature seems to be surpassed by technology, I speculate that nature will eventually reemerge as a product of technology, creating a cycle of two existing states: the natural and the artificial.
The (E)State of America
2021 | Spray Paint | 48 x 24 in
By overlaying legal jargon on traditional landscape paintings found at local thrift stores, I confront the human penchant to claim land as personal properly while neglecting to respect and care for it in a thoughtful and sustainable manner. The first two paintings are directed toward the actions of humanity while the third is directed toward the condition of the land. This triptych also has connotations towards colonial expansion in North America and the dichotomy between colonial perspectives regarding land ownership contrasted against land stewardship practiced by indigenous peoples.
Allergen Statement
2020 | Watercolor | 18 x 24 in
This still-life piece brings attention to the subtle danger of food allergies. By creating an elaborate and elegant table setting with a delicious and initially inviting spread of food, the allergy medicine replacing cutlery can easily be overlooked. All dishes laid out consist of primary allergens that can cause fatal reactions.
Burden
2021 | Oil Paint | 24 x 24 in
Bodily autonomy is not respected, or even recognized, by some. And, even if that autonomy is upheld, there is constant judgement about an individual’s reproductive choices. Bringing attention to the obsession of reproductive healthcare and active movements to suppress it are contrasted with the reality that most people lack a fundamental understanding of female anatomy. Reproduction takes two people, so why is the burden of birth control, family planning, and fighting for reproductive liberties focused on a single individual?
Those with uteruses not only bear the weight of continuing the human species, but must also grapple with the conversation, cultural beliefs, judgments, legislations, and inequality surrounding their anatomy.
To Love Others, You Must First Love Yourself
2022 | Mixed Media | 36 x 48 in
Women are valued for their bodies—how their physicality can serve and satisfy others. This unwanted objectification reveals a disparity between a hyper-cultural focus on the female form, but a lack of research of female anatomy within science and medicine. Our understanding of female anatomy and acceptance of concepts surrounding female pleasure has continually lagged understanding of male anatomy and acceptance of male pleasure. Even when sex education isn’t a point of contingency, curricula censor topics and behaviors integral to every human being, regardless of identity.
There must be more education, conversation, and representation of female pleasure and female masturbation. It is hypocritical that women are sexualized perceived as sexual beings, but are then shamed if they enjoy any sexual pleasure. Conversely, if a woman is not sexualized or does not feel a need to seek out sexual pleasure, then she is also shamed.
We can’t win.
These issues are pervasive to my life. They enlighten my worldview, shape my behaviors, and impact me both in obvious and unconscious ways. I take up space I didn’t think I deserved to enhance recognition, advocate for change, and empower others to do the same.
