Institutions of religion create temples, mosques, cathedrals and altars in attempt to be nearer to the powers that created and bind us. But I’ve never felt closer than when I’m surround by creation itself, our mother, nature.

This painting is an attempt at abstract-visualizing these two societally-opposing feelings of desiring to be close to God yet wanting to be free from the bounds of religion.

• 4x5”

• gold metallic enamel + gouache + oil based paint marker on board

• painted edges

• UV protective varnish 

I’m attempting to create beauty out the very little I have, a reflection of how I felt inside after experiencing a series of traumas fall of 2019 in Portland, OR.

I’d been stripped to nothing, so simple shapes suddenly felt like home. Everything in my life felt like chaos so I desired simplicity and symmetry, centeredness and peace.

I learned the voice I value most is peaceful and meditative positivity in response to the very real and unavoidable chaos and pain of this world.