Artist Statement
My work explores social and political issues using a diverse range of media, including fiber, ceramics, wood, found objects, video, and performance. These materials serve as my tools for dissecting and reimagining the complex tapestry of the human experience, often focusing on racism's profound effects on reproductive healthcare in America, the criminalization of gender affirming care, and the unsettling legacy of individuals celebrated despite their affiliations with white supremacy and misogyny. My recent work has ventured into the ever-evolving political climate in the United States, while drawing on cathartic interactions to engage viewers—a practice rooted in my prior career as an art therapist.
My choice of materials is instrumental in conveying the themes I explore. Fiber and ceramics, with their tactile and versatile qualities, have become the primary mediums through which I communicate my ideas. These materials, when juxtaposed with found objects, video, and performance art, allow me to bridge the gap between traditional craftsmanship and contemporary art, offering a tactile and visceral connection to the viewer.
One of the central themes of my work is the examination of racism's pervasive impact on reproductive healthcare in the United States. This issue strikes at the core of social injustice, affecting marginalized communities disproportionately. My work on this topic delves into obstetric violence and addresses the stark reality of America's alarmingly high maternal mortality rate. The emotional and psychological trauma of postpartum PTSD, an often-overlooked topic, also features in my work, aiming to shed light on the silent suffering experienced by countless new mothers. I explore the roots of obstetric racism and misogyny, exposing the intersections of these issues and how they intertwine to create a web of systemic injustice.
In addition to my focus on healthcare disparities, my work examines the disturbing legacy of individuals who have been celebrated despite their support of white supremacy and misogyny. The United States, like many nations, has its share of historical figures whose contributions are intertwined with problematic ideologies. I aim to question the celebration of these individuals and the lack of accountability for their actions, and hope to provoke a reevaluation of our collective memory and the values we hold as a society.
My recent work ventures into the contemporary political climate in the United States, a space of constant change, polarization, and upheaval. Informed by my background as an art therapist, I incorporate cathartic interactions into my art. I invite viewers to engage with my pieces on a personal and emotional level, allowing them to process their feelings and reactions in a safe and creative environment. These interactions serve as a form of collective therapy, creating a space for dialogue, healing, and, ultimately, change.