Artist Statement
Isolation, aloneness, desperation, failure, regret, and abandonment --- each of these are a state of being that no person actively seeks out. But while seen largely as negative and unwanted, these are common plot points in the development of our character and our striving for success. It might not seem like it, but these unfavorable conditions are necessary ingredients for life. They make us much more robust.
Most people experience these conditions, and I am sympathetic to that. I myself have struggled for a very long time. I primarily live by myself and lack opportunities for interaction. My diagnosis as being on the Autism Spectrum makes it difficult for me to connect with people and establish friendships. My beliefs and culture often leave me estranged to those around me. The bizarre dreams and fictional worlds that I paint are serialized moments on fantastical battlefields that parallel my real-life struggles.
My work is inspired by the archetype of the Hero’s Journey in which the protagonist confronts internal and external struggles. I am particularly interested in such stories found in Judeo-Christian sacred texts. These stories showcase just how brimming with imperfection we are. We make mistakes. We choose poorly. We fall down. We lash out. We are constantly at war within ourselves. But we get back up time and time again, and we evolve.
I contemplate new stories in allegorical paintings that depict human vulnerability. My struggles have humbled me and have drawn me closer to God. My paintings chronicle this journey.
Isolation, aloneness, desperation, failure, regret, and abandonment --- each of these are a state of being that no person actively seeks out. But while seen largely as negative and unwanted, these are common plot points in the development of our character and our striving for success. It might not seem like it, but these unfavorable conditions are necessary ingredients for life. They make us much more robust.
Most people experience these conditions, and I am sympathetic to that. I myself have struggled for a very long time. I primarily live by myself and lack opportunities for interaction. My diagnosis as being on the Autism Spectrum makes it difficult for me to connect with people and establish friendships. My beliefs and culture often leave me estranged to those around me. The bizarre dreams and fictional worlds that I paint are serialized moments on fantastical battlefields that parallel my real-life struggles.
My work is inspired by the archetype of the Hero’s Journey in which the protagonist confronts internal and external struggles. I am particularly interested in such stories found in Judeo-Christian sacred texts. These stories showcase just how brimming with imperfection we are. We make mistakes. We choose poorly. We fall down. We lash out. We are constantly at war within ourselves. But we get back up time and time again, and we evolve.
I contemplate new stories in allegorical paintings that depict human vulnerability. My struggles have humbled me and have drawn me closer to God. My paintings chronicle this journey.