POWDERCOATED NAILS.

Connected explores the power in even the smallest of influences and their potential to unite into something much greater than their individual voices. Fabricated out of thousands of fused nails, this sculpture embraces our connections and recognizes the worth of each individual, as well as our collective impact.

SELF-COLLECTED WINE CORKS, ZIP-TIES, WIRESELF-COLLECTED WINE CORKS, ZIP-TIES, WIRE

A visual investigation of the genetic predispositions associated with addiction and the fear associated with one’s likelihood of developing an addictive personality and/or being plagued by addiction.

"You are not a burden. You have a burden. Which by definition, is too heavy to carry on your own."

Self-mutilation is a theme that dominates not only the world of mental health but also sources a majority of my subject matter. In most cases, scars remain as a reminder of previous pain, either empowering an individual or even haunting them. The stigma surrounding self-harm is notoriously brutal, and as a result, those bearing their battle wounds feel forced to conceal their scars and bear their shame.

Bronze is one of the longest-lasting art mediums, potentially lasting thousands of years and outliving their creators. This piece is symbolic of a mental barrier I personally found necessary to conquer. Specifically in an attempt to strongly communicate the beauty in one's personal experiences and to effectively communicate that our wounds stand not as a disgrace, but rather as proud reminders of a victorious battle. In this piece, I immortalize the essence of my own vulnerability as I preserve my greatest insecurity eternally in bronze.

USED SALAD CUPS, THREAD.

A visual statement addressing the controversial topic of eating disorders in today’s society, as well as the internal and external damage they cause.

The deliberate process of single-handedly washing each cup emphasized the importance of the material itself and my choice subject matter. The layout and pattern of the liner lines on the wall replicate an exact map of the self-harm scars residing on my own thighs.‘Relinquishing all control to the unchangeable pattern marking my skin, I embraced my vulnerability as I allowed my biggest insecurity to dictate the success and vitality of the piece, both aesthetically and functionally.'

"I mapped out my scars for the world to see and for the first time, they were called 'beautiful.' And in that moment, my legs no longer made me ashamed, but rather proud of the story they told."

Reconnected strives to challenge an individual’s concept of perception and provokes a viewer to reconsider the complexity in that which seems mundane, The work suggests an alternate attitude towards what they consider to be inconsequential and triggers a realization of the infinite potential that can be found in anything, if only they were to take another look. Enticing a newfound understanding of that which has been undervalued, the viewer begins to appreciate the notion that something, or possibly someone, is much greater than the limitations society has characterized them by.

Nails are so simple, yet hold such detrimental value, as they begin the basis of any foundation and exemplify the literal definition of connection. The epitome of a homogeneous and profoundly distinctive shape, The homogeneous merge of this distinctively shaped object then results in a complete metamorphosis from worthless matter into an empowering statement of unification.