Artist Statement

Mindfulness and meditation are my constantly evolving, imperfect practices. Without art I am an inconsistent meditator, without meditation it is easy to forget to be present while creating. Often, my art and meditation practices are one and the same. Weaving is an active practice, connecting the body and the breath, its own kind of meditation. Stitching and painting focus my mind, pulling me into the moment and assisting me in letting rampaging thoughts go. By using the practice of mindfulness when approaching my work, I am able to reflect on how I am feeling in the moment. Painting, stitching, and weaving are what I use to tap into a meditative headspace and transform these feelings in a visual art form. I use a predominantly black and white color palette to bring the work to its most simple components. When color is included, it signifies a specific emotion or experience. Composition, texture, and the balance of color all come together to create a narrative of emotion.

These processes help me find peace in a world that feels chaotic. Working with my hands has always been a cathartic method to manage my overactive mind. Through mindful practice, my thoughts slow down and I find a sense of calm that helps me move through my emotions. Releasing these feelings through art-making processes helps me to stay calm in the face of the inevitable disruptions that we all face every day. This work holds my anxiety for me, it connects my breath and body and allows me to create as an act of meditation.